Challenge:

One of the world’s largest aerospace companies and leading manufacturer came to us with their event management needs.,  They chose CLI to assist with the creative event decor of a biennial gala in appreciation for their suppliers. The event took place at the Portland Convention Center in Portland, Oregon.

Creative décor

Dissatisfied with previous preferred vendors, our client insisted on working with CLI for the upcoming biennial gala.  The corporate meeting planner needed an event management company to provide creative décor that would meet demand and quality expectations while providing cost-effective solutions.

The attendee list had tripled to 1200 people from the previous galas. CLI was faced with the challenge of finding chairs that were high quality to protect the corporate brand, but cost-effective and with a natural look that the client appreciated. Over several years, certain wood, chameleon chairs had become a staple for the gala, but the vendor had gone out of business and after sourcing alternatives, there was still a need for two-hundred more chairs than available in the area.

Another challenge of this gala event was the delivery of unseemly tables. CLI was able to make last-minute adjustments to add linens and runners to resolve the challenge. Our global event management team is experienced with last-minute changes and we work day and night to guarantee guests and clients leave happy with their experience.

Engage:

CLI was first connected with our corporate client during an event at a Seattle hotel in 2013.  Our event management team at CLI  continued the relationship through transparency, prompt communication, and flexibility to meet specific needs. When dissatisfied with the service of other preferred vendors, the client insisted on working with CLI.

With a vendor out of business and a shortage of two-hundred chairs, CLI took the opportunity to add a creative flare to the décor. By substituting different style chairs and tables, this created a clean look with a unique twist on a traditional event. Our expertiserenting all types of event furniture nationwide allowed the CLI event team to act quickly for our client.

Prior to the gala, our team was able to make last-minute changes to the runners and linens and coordinate with the catering manager. Upon delivery of the tables, CLI added navy blue linen with lime green runners to the event décor. CLI also coordinated with the catering manager to plan an early delivery for flatware.

To truly engage guests, CLI encourages our clients to consider creative decor themes when hosting events. A “Land Meets the Sea” theme was selected to coordinate with the venue’s LEED certification as a platinum sustainability destination. This theme inspired an array of custom table designs and color schemes. To represent the “sea,” our team used moss-colored linen with shades of blue reflecting off of a mirrored centerpieces. The “land” tablescapes incorporated a swirled natural elements tabletop, highlighted with succulents and dried tree branches.  Each elegant table was completed with chiavari chairs with ice blue cushions.

Resolve:

From beginning to end, the gala was a beautiful success, an impressive event for the aerospace giant, and a great way to thank their suppliers.

CLI provided creative event décor, including linen, chairs, glassware, flatware, silverware, centerpieces, bar fronts, and cocktail reception décor to create a remarkable event that would help nurture Boeing’s relationship with their suppliers.

If you’d like to learn more about our extensive network of unique event rental decor vendors in cities nationwide, contact our event team today.

Challenge:

At CLI Groups, we know the best compliment we can receive is a repeat client. That’s why when FMC Corporation asked for our help planning a high-profile dinner event for the second year in a row, our global event management team got to work.

Global Event Experts

FMC Corporation, a national chemical manufacturing company, works with several distributors to help their products reach a variety of markets. In 2017, the group hired CLI Groups (CLI) to manage transfers from Aria Resort & Casino to Strip House restaurant as well as the overall menu and dinner event enhancements.

In 2018, the group needed to host another group of top distributor partners including presidents, directors, and key account representatives. Although the group chose South Carolina as the destination, our client reached back out to CLI knowing we worked in cities nationwide.

Engage:

Dinner Event & Venue Management

To host a creative dinner event that would allow for networking, superior food, and the best atmosphere possible, Anson Restaurant was selected for this year’s event. Anson Restaurant is located in the popular tourism destination, Charleston, which features Charleston Harbor and quaint neighborhoods with cobblestone streets.

CLI helped select and coordinate a creative menu to encourage conversation during dinner and provide a memorable evening. Our contact with FMC could rest assured and prepare for other components of the program knowing CLI’s global event management team was in constant communication with the restaurant.

Resolve:

Creative Catering Enhancements

The restaurant offered menu cards for each place setting, however CLI knew this particular client wanted customized menu cards and name tags. To go above and beyond for our repeat client, the CLI team created custom menu cards for each place setting.

Creative catering enhancements such as this can turn a standard dinner event into a successful, memorable opportunity for our clients to grow business and expand into new markets.

Global Event Management Services

CLI Groups offer dinner events, creative catering, transportation, talent, decor, and activities in cities nationwide. Contact our team to learn more about how our global event management services can improve results and ROI of your next corporate event.

Challenge:

Fastline Media Group, a media company offering 22 catalogs and the largest database of agricultural equipment online, chose CLI Groups to help bring its annual sales incentive program to the next level.

Las Vegas Incentive Program Experts

When the executive assistant to Fastline Media Group’s CEO contacted CLI Groups, she had already selected ARIA Las Vegas as the host hotel for the 50-person group. She knew the group wanted to offer an unforgettable, seamless experience within budget, but needed a Las Vegas event planner to bring together the extra details.

CLI Groups has executed hundreds of Las Vegas incentive programs since 2004. Our team got to work to coordinate the group’s restaurant, team-building, airport transfers, group photo, and branded welcome gifts.

Engage:

Restaurants & Las Vegas Venue Selection

The majority of the group was traveling in from the Midwest and preferred a high-quality steak restaurant without inflated hotel prices. CLI Groups was able to work with existing contacts at Prime Steakhouse, the premiere steakhouse at Bellagio Hotel & Casino, to offer guests a prix fixe menu that worked within budget.

Not only did our team coordinate a crowd-pleasing menu within budget, but we also used our local expertise to make the experience more convenient for guests. Typically, Bellagio transportation operations permit mini bus drop-off’s and pick-up’s from the Tour Lobby Entrance only. This requires guests to walk a greater distance through the hotel and casino to the restaurant.

However, because of our rockstar transportation & event operations team, our savvy event planner talked with Bellagio valet workers following dinner and were able to pick-up from the North Entrance instead of the Bellagio Tour Lobby. Entrance This pleased Fastline Media Group’s guests with a shorter walk following dinner.

It’s the little pieces of local knowledge and connections like this that can make all the difference when hosting a Las Vegas event. At CLI Groups, we go above and beyond to make our clients’ experiences unforgettable.

Team-Building with a Philanthropic Twist

In the spirit of giving back, Fastline Media Group desired a team-building event within their Las Vegas hotel that had a charity element. CLI Groups and one of our preferred partners worked together to bring in a Build-a-Bear event complete with ice breakers and a fun activity. The group created bears, rocking chairs, and horses and donated items to children through the Nevada Children’s Heart Foundation.

ARIA Las Vegas, the selected hotel for Fastline, offers brand-new, state-of-the-art convention and meeting space which opened in Spring 2018. With our event held just one week following the opening, CLI Groups worked carefully to protect all hotel furniture and equipment to relieve liability of our client.

Branded Welcome Gifts

We at CLI Groups believe first impressions are as important as final impressions. That’s why we helped our client create branded welcome gifts for all guests. Our event staff took on the hotel room drop coordination so our client had one less detail to worry about.

Elite Las Vegas Airport Transfers

From the north end to the south end of the Las Vegas Strip, CLI Groups is known among hotel event sales reps as the top airport transfer specialist. No other destination management company offers the attention to detail, clean vehicles, and professional drivers we offer. Our Las Vegas airport transportation experts are familiar with managing travel manifests and the last-minute changes that typically occur.

Resolve:

Las Vegas Logistics Experts

At CLI Groups, we know our corporate, incentive, and leisure clients have plenty to manage before, during, and after their visit. Let CLI Groups bring your event to the next level while handling the details for you in a respectful, proactive, and expert manner.

Click here to schedule an event assessment with our specialists before your next Las Vegas incentive program!

Challenge:

In April 2018, CLI Groups was able to help pharmaceutical group, One Retail, Inc., amaze their top sales representatives with an unforgettable Las Vegas event experience.

The group was challenged with guests arriving from all parts of the country, including areas of extreme snow storms causing flight delays. Additionally, the group’s wide range of preferred Las Vegas activities and entertainment in Las Vegas presented One Retail’s Vice President and Creative Director with challenges appealing to all guests. Luckily, they hired our team at CLI Groups to help.

Engage:

When flights were delayed due to unexpected Spring snow storms, CLI’s transportation event management team knew just what to do. Our extended dispatch teams tracked flights and adjusted arrival manifests in real-time to ensure our greeters were at the right place at the right time.

All-New McCarran Airport Arrival Experience

McCarran Airport has had several changes within the past 10 years, with more improvements planned beyond 2018. CLI’s on-site Las Vegas transportation experts knew how to work between multiple terminals to greet all guests at the correct baggage claim areas. To complete the VIP Las Vegas arrival experience, CLI had an arrival photographer ready at the hotel to take check-in and ambiance photos.

Unique Las Vegas Activities

While coordinating and offering multiple Las Vegas activities can be a challenge, our team has planned thousands of Las Vegas excursions and creative activities since 2004 for corporate incentive programs, corporate conferences and various types of corporate special events. The result? Our clients benefit from the freedom to focus on guests, not coordinating a wide range of activities and logistics. One Retail’s guests enjoyed all types of Las Vegas activities from ATV tours, Hoover Dam tours, scavenger hunts,  and more.

Resolve:

The final touch before departing Las Vegas was to host a sales award ceremony and reception to recognize top performers. Our client knew they needed to make a memorable impression and asked CLI’s creative team to share ideas. The group decided an interactive event complete with a paparazzi-style photo station, live band for entertainment, engraved awards, and gorgeous decor would take the awards reception to the next level.

One major objective with any Las Vegas event is timing. Just as flights don’t always arrive on time, award ceremony schedules often have on-site changes that require an experienced event planner to manage. Our CLI Groups event manager, Shanel, was able to utilize her experience executing more than 200 events to adjust the band’s performance time when award acceptance speeches ran longer than expected.

It’s our Las Vegas event planner expertise such as the ability to adjust when the unplanned happens that sets CLI Groups apart from other event planners. If you are considering a local destination management company for your next corporate event, contact our team at CLI Groups today to learn how we may be able to help. You won’t regret it!

Click here to schedule an event assessment with our specialists before your next Las Vegas incentive program.

Challenge:

You may know Las Vegas is a popular destination for international travelers, but did you know more than 200,000 Chinese visitors traveled to Las Vegas in 2016? This number is only growing, and actually may be much higher, according to the Las Vegas Business Press.

Hotels appeal to Chinese visitors by creating beautiful hotel gardens for Chinese New Year, offering authentic menu options, featuring culturally-diverse entertainment, and more. Yet, when it comes to planning an entire incentive event program, a local Las Vegas event planner like CLI Groups makes all the difference. Read on to learn how we helped our client execute an entertaining event beyond anyone’s expectations.

Challenges Planning an International Event 

Planning incentive event programs in a country other than your own can present new challenges. Language barriers, differences in customs, and specific menu preferences can leave international event managers frustrated when working to bring all details together.

Engage:

CLI Groups Steps In

When a Chinese-based event manager from Cigna contacted CLI Groups, she had parts of the annual incentive program already in place, but needed help with event production and entertainment. The off-site venue her travel agency recommended was not able to provide the level of service required for her high-profile event, and our new client desperately needed a local expert to help.

Janice, CLI Global Event Specialist, helped our new client define her event objectives and then selected new venue options for Cigna. Our team negotiated the venue contract and used our existing relationships to offer a spectacular venue. The new, upscale venue also better represented the group’s cultural and incentive event needs.

Customized Entertainment & Production

Now with the new Hard Rock Live Las Vegas event booked, the CLI Event Team needed to customize the event flow, entertainment, production, and decor.

Our team worked around the clock to make sure the event was memorable for Cigna and their Chinese guests. We used local connections to book headliner for the private event. Custom entertainment and adjustments to the performers typical show were coordinated to meet the group’s culture and theme.

Table linen and customized tablescape decor provided an upscale touch, yet CLI’s savvy event specialists were able to keep costs reasonable for Cigna.

The CLI event team hired beautiful showgirls and professional models to assist in greeting guests. The talent was also part of the awards show, handing out awards on stage and providing a celebrity element to the incentive event.

Resolve:

Making our Clients Look Good

We know our event manager and marketing clients are responsible to their company executives to coordinate a successful event while staying within budget. That’s why at CLI Groups, we work day and night to meet our clients’ requests.

The group at Cigna had several moving pieces, but it didn’t stop CLI from offering superior service. Our team is experienced with the last-minute changes typical when planning an event. Our decades of Las Vegas event planning experience allow our team to anticipate needs, all the while making our clients look great to their executives and guests.

A Long-term Event Partner

When you choose CLI Groups as your Las Vegas event planner, you receive a long-term event partner. We use our local connections and deep relationships with talent, venues, decor suppliers, and rental companies throughout the city to offer the highest level of service. Our team works day and night to guarantee each and every client leaves Las Vegas happy with their experience, and ready to come back and visit again.

Want to see how CLI Groups can improve your next annual incentive event program? Click here to request a complimentary, 15-minute event assessment. Let us help you execute an unforgettable event!

Challenge:

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held annually in Las Vegas attracts more than 180,000 attendees and 4,000 exhibiting companies. Due to the volume of the show, emerging brands find it a challenge to stand out in the sea of technology companies.

At CLI Groups, we offer local contacts and experience directing CES attendees from convention centers to private events and meetings at various hotels on the Strip. The result from increased one-on-one time with potential buyers during CES 2018 was a huge benefit to one of our technology company clients, Impact Tech Labs.

About CLI’s Loyal Client, Impact Tech Labs (tech21)

After relying on CLI Groups to guide targeted potential clients from CES 2017 to private sales demo’s off-site, Impact Tech Labs contacted us once again to coordinate branding in 2018.

Impact Tech Labs and parent company, tech21, specialize in wearable technology and mobile phone impact protection. These global technology disruptors invite guests to sales demo’s in a hotel suite at the five-star luxury hotel, Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas, during CES.

Engage:

Custom Signage to Sales Demo’s

To guide CES attendees to the sales demo’s at Mandarin Oriental hotel, Impact Tech Lab’s marketing team had logos, signage, and other custom graphics to be printed and installed. While the marketing team knew the brand the best, they needed a local hotel expert to make recommendations for the most effective signage and branded decal placements possible.

Using our experience navigating guests through the Mandarin Oriental while working with hotel staff for elevator security access, CLI’s event team was able to increase sales demo attendance.

Corporate Branding using Creative Graphics

Our Las Vegas events team toured hotel suites prior to the event and recommended additional creative branding concepts, such as branded sticker decals on a transparent room divider. We were able to map out and plan directional signage, paying specific attention to detail along the way. This additional peace of mind was invaluable to our client.

Impact Tech Labs was also tasked with several other CES planning activities, making fast turnaround on art proofs crucial to help keep plans on track. Not only was CLI able to recommend new, innovative branding concepts, but our creative staff also printed quality:

• elevator decals with logo
• tabletop signage
• directional signage
• branded floor decals
• branded window decals

Resolve:

Hospitality Staffing

Once CLI helped our clients’ guests locate the Mandarin Oriental hotel suite for product demo’s, we staffed hospitality greeters to welcome guests and check them in. Hiring only the highest quality talent in Las Vegas, our clients appreciate the added benefit of helpful hospitality staff strengthening their brand with a VIP guest experience.

Full-Service Creative Branding

With many distractions in Las Vegas, CLI Groups helps technology, financial, travel, and other industries thrive through focused, proactive event planning. Don’t risk missing an opportunity to connect face-to-face with your buyers – contact CLI Groups today

Challenge:

In a popular event city such as Chicago, corporate meeting planners are challenged with finding affordable venues.

When CLI’s long-time client, Pottorff, called needing assistance from a Chicago destination management company, our team was able to exceed expectations. Our event specialists were thrilled to negotiate better rental and catering pricing for two elite Chicago venues, therefore benefitting our client with more budget for entertainment.

About CLI’s Long-Time Client, Pottorff

In January 2018, Pottorff, an HVAC manufacturer and distributor, turned to CLI Groups to be their event expert for two high-profile events in Chicago. The Pottorff events team trusted CLI’s ability to provide new creative event concepts while expertly managing event logistics after working with CLI in 2017.

Engage:

Chicago Event Venue Selection

The Pottorff meeting planner knew the budget and event objectives assigned would be a challenge in Chicago, a city with higher prices. A quick phone call to one of CLI’s event specialists was all that was needed to start the process of event selection, negotiation, and coordination.

Using our experience negotiating venue contracts, CLI was able to secure better meeting room rental and menu pricing for elite Chicago venues. Pottorff benefitted by having the ability to host 200 guests within budget.

The Hyatt Regency Chicago was selected to host a breakfast awards ceremony, and Rockit Bar & Grill was selected for an interactive reception to showcase new products. Rockit Bar offered an industrial, newer space in Chicago’s River North neighborhood to help increase attendance and event success.

Creative Catering Concepts

CLI is known for taking our clients’ events to the next level with creative catering concepts. For Pottorff’s first event, CLI selected a breakfast menu to encourage engagement during the breakfast awards ceremony. The key was a quality, cost-effective menu that offered minimal interuptions during the awards ceremony.

To help Pottorff meet its event objectives for the second event, an interactive reception with sales demos, CLI suggested incorporating an AFC viewing party to add a social component. The fun and casual atmosphere helped guests to relax and feel comfortable asking questions about our client’s new products.

CLI also added a creative catering element to the event with a signature drink – a blue margarita to represent company colors. This served as a memorable, unique event enhancement.

Resolve:

Reduced Stress and Saved Time

The CLI team stayed one step ahead during planning stages and while on-site so our meeting planner client could focus on guests and company executives.

As event attendance grew throughout the event registration process, CLI worked to secure a larger room without the client having to worry. We guided our client through the changes and provided audio visual expertise by recommending a second screen to ensure guests could see the presentations.

CLI took the burden off of Pottorff meeting planners and worked directly with the venue to provide the best possible room layout. As a result of our experience with the venue, CLI was able to proactively help guide guests from the hotel lobby to the event room.

Sharon, CLI’s On-Site Global Event Manger, used her experience managing 75+ events in 2017 to offer service above-and-beyond the standard. She arrived extra early to test audio visual set-up, complete mic checks, and confirm catering staff were ready and menus were correct.

Moving Forward

After successful events in Chicago and Las Vegas, Pottorff has already hired CLI to execute new events in Atlanta in late 2018.

We at CLI value our client relationships in Las Vegas and cities nationwide. Client trust and peace-of-mind is always an end goal for our event planning teams. Contact us today to learn more about our global event services

Challenge:

November 6, 2017

Now more than ever, people are looking for ways to help others.

In the wake of recent devastating natural disasters, such as the hurricanes in Houston, Florida, and Puerto Rico, the Northern California fire, and international earthquakes and floods, a Wells Fargo meeting planner decided to take action. We at CLI Groups were asked to plan and manage a charity team building event for Wells Fargo team members in order to help disaster victims. It was such an inspiring event that we wanted to share it with you.

With a week to plan, we contacted the Clean the World Foundation which collects soap and other toiletry items from hotels, then cleans and repurposes them for disaster victims in the U.S. and around the globe. According to the Foundation, children five and under are highly susceptible to dying from acute respiratory infection and diarrheal disease without regular access to soap. Natural disasters only exacerbate this problem. Clean the World provided us with enough toiletries to assemble hundreds of hygiene kits for the victims.

Engage:

We were able to source the beautiful Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa as the site for the October 12th charity/cocktail reception, where Wells Fargo team members gathered together to volunteer their time to assemble the hygiene kits. Before their arrival, we were busy receiving and organizing the materials while handling some last minute requests for our client. The Wells Fargo attendees arrived early, eager to help, and created new ways to make the assembly line even more efficient. They were able to create over 460 kits in under one hour! They were asked to write cards for the victims; many stayed late to write even more cards than were asked of them. The team members commented on how much they enjoyed the event and how glad they were to be able to help the disaster victims.

Resolve:

Charity team building events can create an opportunity for your team to relax and bond as a group, sharing the common purpose of helping those in need. It is also a reminder of what can be achieved when colleagues communicate ideas and work together. Community service projects can be incorporated into any type of meeting or event.

We at CLI love planning and managing charity events because we too enjoy giving back to the community. Please contact us to book your next charity team building event. We are ready with a list of creative options for you, and we are committed to making sure that your event exceeds your expectations.

Challenge:

October 12, 2017

Las Vegas played host to some of the most innovative and creative eyewear designers in the world, as they traveled near and far to attend the largest independent luxury eyewear trade show production in North America, Loft Las Vegas. The annual premier event is an opportunity for designers to showcase their latest work, network, learn from one another, expand on ideas, and be noticed by top retailers in the industry.

The trade show managers at Loft Las Vegas, have trusted CLI Groups, an event management agency, to organize and manage each of their trade show productions in Las Vegas for the last five years. It is a partnership that continues to grow.

CLI Groups designed the 2017 Loft Las Vegas eyewear trade show in a modern style to make sure it properly reflected the trendy and luxurious eyewear being showcased by the designers.

This year, CLI Groups and Loft Las Vegas worked together to raise the level of the trade show production from previous years, starting with the venue. The event used to be held in a beautiful Las Vegas Strip hotel, however, the eyewear vendors were working within suites which created barriers. The attendees were not able to see all of the vendors simply due to the logistics of the floor plan. That needed to change. They needed an open area to increase the exposure amongst the vendors.

CLI was able to solve this problem by sourcing the perfect venue, the breathtaking Keep Memory Alive Event Center. The Center is known for its unique and contemporary architecture, the ideal site for celebrating the latest in eyewear design. It is situated in the popular downtown Las Vegas area, the newly renovated arts and cultural center of the city. According to kmaeventcenterlasvegas.com, the building contains “a 75-foot ceiling with 199 windows, with no two windows having the same size or shape.” A unique setting fit for a one-of-a-kind event. CLI has worked with this venue before so they knew exactly what to expect.

Planning a trade show is a complex task with many different facets that need to be considered. CLI Groups relies on its years of trade show management experience and high-level of creativity to prevent and handle any issues that may arise. The program agenda for this event was over twenty pages. That is an indicator of the amount of planning that is required for a successful trade show to take place. CLI constantly checked it to catch any mistakes before they could happen. The tiniest details are often the most important and cannot be missed.

One of the challenges of this event was that thirty-two modern-style booths, including common areas and food and beverage stations, needed to be set up in a relatively small area. CLI Groups took great care to organize the layout of the space so that each of the designers could occupy a booth that was large enough to suit their needs, partitioned using pipes and drapes.

Engage:

CLI Groups has access to the very best trade show production vendors, experts who can provide the highest quality products and services, within the client’s budget. CLI sourced fifteen vendors to customize the trade show production for their Loft Las Vegas client, including top vendors for such necessities as transportation, food and beverage, staffing, drapes, linens, signage, and furniture. They even sourced a printing company to make sure that each of the

thirty-two exhibitors were provided with a comprehensive, yet simple, vendor packet of information.

CLI Groups also handled outgoing and incoming worldwide shipments, including storage, for their client. These are the kinds of details that CLI anticipates and knows how to manage for a trade show production.

Resolve:

From set-up to break down, CLI Groups was there, ensuring a smooth event. The guests were greeted, and the shuttles arrived (from two hotels). The breakfast and lunch buffets were overflowing with delicious choices. A personal espresso barista was on-hand to make sure everyone was well-caffeinated. Plenty of modern tables and chairs were strategically placed in order to promote discussions amongst guests.

Cutting-edge, beautiful eyewear could be found at every turn.

A question and answer panel discussion took place on the outdoor stage. CLI worked closely with the audio and visual team to make sure it went off without a hitch! A cocktail reception followed, including entertainment sourced by CLI. No one could resist the tasty hors d’oeuvres. The lobster mac and cheese bites went fast! Modern lounge furniture and tables were placed in the garden to keep guests comfortable. I like knowing that the people who probably designed my glasses get together and party in a garden every year.

CLI Groups was told by their client that this was their best event yet and that the challenge next year will be to top this year! CLI always loves a challenge.

Challenge:

September 25, 2017

Five years ago, a corporate client contacted CLI Groups, an event management agency, to coordinate a small team event at a local Las Vegas bowling alley. Fast forward five years. The corporation blinked its eyes and became a billion-dollar business. Yes, it’s that easy. At this year’s summer conference, the bowling alley was traded in for the entire third floor of convention space at a major hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, sourced by CLI Groups. CLI Groups coordinated and managed four days of Las Vegas meetings and nightly offsite celebrations for their long-standing client. Guests included many global corporate leaders convening for the first time.

Engage:

Guests were welcomed to Las Vegas as they dined and danced the night away at a popular Las Vegas nightclub. Things didn’t get serious until the cinnamon churros rolled out, with the strawberry and dulce de leche dipping sauces. What is better than a warm churro after a day of travel? The company celebrated the retirement of a beloved colleague by bringing out even more desserts- a cart full of cake and cake pops. Did I mention that there were churros? With two sauces. Mmm…churros.

Six cheerleaders were ready bright and early the next morning to greet guests at the conference center, which was helpful for the ones who weren’t fully awake yet. In the general session area, guests sat before a beautiful stage branded with the company’s logo, which included multiple screens to ensure proper visibility. The entire third floor of meeting space was branded and looking sharp. A show producer and technical director were on hand to manage each minute of the presentations. A comedy troupe performed after lunch to help guests relax before resuming business discussions.

The jury is still out on whether the guests were completely energized by the general session speakers or by the many cleverly branded banners and escalator clings lining the halls at the conference center. There’s power in a cling. By the end of the general session, everyone felt ready to hop on a mechanical bull and do some country line dancing. Guests were transported to a Las Vegas country nightclub which was decorated top-to-bottom with fun and festive western-themed decor. There they enjoyed a full BBQ dinner, craft beer tasting stations, and a candy bar while listening to a live country band. They participated in bean bag tosses, beer pong, and billiards. Four line dancing teachers were on hand to teach guests how to line dance. What a night! A true cowboy experience. Feeling refreshed after a fun evening of beer pong and candy, guests were back to learning and networking during breakout sessions at the conference center the following day. Comfortable, modern furniture was carefully arranged by CLI Groups to facilitate these discussions. A cool sponsorship wall, containing the logos of 16 sponsors, was created for this area. The wall was a perfect way to pay homage to sponsors and served as a great photo op.

Resolve:

By evening, the guests were ready to celebrate the culmination of an exceptional conference with one last night on the town. CLI Groups coordinated transportation to take guests to another Las Vegas hotspot, a beach club on the Strip. CLI Groups took special pride in completely branding this venue with its client’s logo, including the ceiling, despite having to deal with condensation issues due to humid weather, a rare problem in Las Vegas. But that didn’t stop guests from enjoying the food and festivities.

Next year, CLI Groups just needs to add a night at the bowling alley…with some churros

Challenge:

September 18th, 2017

A violin played, a champagne bottle was smashed, and celebratory cheers could be heard at gate number 40 at Signature Airport on that beautiful Las Vegas evening.

Crystal Skye, the world’s largest and most luxurious charter jet, a wide-body Boeing 777-200LR, was being christened by her owners, the prestigious Crystal Cruises, and its parent company, Genting Hong Kong.

Virtuoso, a prominent network of travel advisors, joined Crystal Cruises in celebrating the reveal of the cutting-edge airliner.

CLI Groups was proud and honored to be Crystal Cruises’ event management agency of choice to coordinate the Crystal Skye christening, followed by a cocktail reception at Maverick Event Center and five days of jet tours by almost 2,000 Virtuoso and global travel advisors.

Planning the christening event at Signature Airport presented some very unique challenges for CLI Groups. Every person attending the occasion on the tarmac, including the bus drivers, and any items used for the ceremony required prior clearance and authorization by Signature Airport. Some of the items needed for the event, such as a small tent to shade equipment, were not allowed to be used due to safety reasons. CLI Groups, with its combined 60 years of event managing experience, quickly thought of alternative materials that could be used on the aviation platform. They also gathered all of the clearance information that was needed while at the same time preparing for the cocktail reception and tours.

Engage:

Renee Kim, President of CLI Groups, explained how her event management team works to prevent issues from arising, saying, “Each minute is planned. We triple check– TWICE– every detail before and during the event until it ends. We don’t assume anything. We have a strong sense of pride, and accountability and responsibility to our clients. This combination is what brings our events to life.”

The cocktail reception at Maverick Event Center is where the creativity of Crystal Cruises and CLI Groups really came into play. As guests entered the reception area, they were instantly transported to another era- 1950s Pan Am, “The Golden Age of Air Travel.” The room was transformed to give a festive “old airport” feel to guests, using a black and white color scheme and vintage Pan Am decor.

The “old” was a nice contrast to the “new.” A lounge area was dedicated to the Crystal Skye jet, decorated in the modern style of the Crystal AirCruise brand, using Crystal’s signature colors of teal, silver, and white.

Resolve:

By the next day, the hundreds of travel advisors, who traveled to Las Vegas from all over the world, were very excited to tour the unprecedented Crystal Skye charter jet, with its 88 first-class, lie-flat seats. CLI Groups carefully secured five days of transportation for the advisors to get to and from the Las Vegas Strip and Signature Airport in fifteen-minute intervals. Guests traveling aboard the branded buses at the noon hour enjoyed boxed lunches personally handed out by CLI Groups employees.

Helen Panagos, Vice President at Crystal Cruises, expressed gratitude to CLI Groups for helping to create the successful Las Vegas event, when she said, “Our President and CEO Edie Rodriguez and I send our personal thanks to you and your team for bringing our original Crystal AirCruise celebration vision to life for the Crystal Skye’s Christening. It made all of our past and present efforts worthwhile.

The Crystal Cruises jet christening was a joyous success, an impressive event for an even more impressive jet, Crystal Skye.

For more information about how CLI Groups can help you plan and manage your next corporate meeting or event, please visit cligroups.com or call 702-329-9908.

Challenge:

A repeat client came to us looking for the same décor and entertainment from their previous year’s conference, along with some new ideas. The goal of the client was to host multiple evening events that were fun for guests as a getaway from their day time conference.

Engage:

For the first evening event we brought in the same DJ and lights from the previous year, but also added a magician and bubble girl for the pool as entertainment. The wind was dangerously strong, so we quickly re-evaluated and had the lights lowered and weighed down, and the bubble girl perform at first only on the pool deck. The second evening event we had staffing used as directionals to guide guests from the busses to the venue, games, a band, and a photo booth.

Resolve:

The client was pleased that we were flexible and able to come up with risk management solutions. Overall the guests had a fantastic and fun time at both evening events which set an elevated tone for the conference.

Challenge:

Every year, a Regional Vice President for sales, puts together an incentive program for his team to celebrate their success. He wanted to create a memorable experience his team for their annual incentive trip.  Since he has been doing this annually, he was running out of unique ideas with the same team he has.  CLI was tasked to design and create a very memorable experience for his sales team.

Engage:

Instead of suggesting typical activity and tour options that Vegas offers, CLI created something very unique just for this group.  We created an adventure theme from the moment the guests left the hotel until they returned.  Imagine exotic cars lining up in front of the hotel to pick you up.  CLI arranged to have all exotic cars line up in front of the hotel to pick up the team to make them extremely “VIP” and special.  They loved the driving experience from the hotel to our destination, Las Vegas Desert, in the middle of NOWHERE.  We lined up all of the buggies for them to drive where which way they can in the desert landscapes of Nevada.  We had tents, music and food for them to not only ride the buggies but actually enjoyed the time out as a group to celebrate their great year.

Resolve:

This type of exceptional experience is something they will never forget and the group loved it!

Challenge:

Our client came to us for ideas on how to do a mix lounge setup instead of a traditional meeting setup in a ballroom. They also wanted help with converting a casino gaming event into a team building and enhancing their reception space.

Engage:

For the meeting space we did a combination of sofas, conversation tables, highboys with stools and some existing classroom seating. In the existing casino space we created a tournament event that was designed where people were paired off and had to work together on the games. For the reception we provided a DJ, glow lights, Hollywood style furniture, and did a group photograph with the SLS sign in the background.

Resolve:

Meeting was a success, everyone could see the presentation without having a structured seating format. The teambuilding was effective in getting attendees to work as a team in a fun gaming atmosphere. The reception décor was beautiful and tied in with the hotels prevailing style.

Challenge:

A repeat client came to us looking for complete event management. One of the first things to tackle was the transportation. They wanted to transport over 1,800 people from the airport to Bellagio over a 10 hour span.

Engage:

One of the first things our event managers do is to review the travel manifest to ensure the accuracy. Checking the arrival times, flight information, identifying the arrival terminals.  Then, we assess the vehicle requirements to ensure we have the most economical way to transport the guests.  We worked closely with the hotel to get guests to either the main check in desk or satellite check in to ensure maximum utilization of staff and minimal lines/wait times. We also made sure that the guests luggage was to be delivered directly to their rooms after being checked in. Not only were we able to have the luggage quickly delivered, we also made sure to get their luggage from storage to the shuttles in a quick and orderly fashion on their day of departure.

Resolve:

The client was immensely pleased that we were flexible and able to come up with quick and timely solutions. Overall the guests had a stress free transition to their first day of travel. We ended up transporting their 1,800 guests in under a 8 hour time span.

Challenge:

Client came to us to help change the format of their client appreciation event. They hold this event every year during CES and wanted to find a format that was higher energy and more engaging for attendees.

Engage:

We developed a room layout that created more of a lounge feel, with couch settings and varying levels of furniture. We also brought in a production manager to produce the show, so the format was more of a flowing production instead of a standard presentation.

Resolve:

Attendees were very excited about the new format of the evening, both the production and room design. We predict an increase in attendance next year due to the positive reactions generated this year.

Challenge:

Our client wanted to put together multiple engaging team building activities for their top sales performers held in Las Vegas. The client reached out for innovative gaming ideas to place in multiple rooms within their Las Vegas hotel meeting space. Each room had a theme correlating to a marketing concept.

Engage:

Once given each rooms themed concept we proposed multiple gaming options that would match each theme. The biggest hurdle was creating a life size maze with a given budget. We proposed a balloon maze, in which we brought in our balloon designers and used 3000 balloons! We also provided cash machines, sports games, décor, and lighting to enhance each room.

Resolve:

The guests were able to engage with their peers in friendly competition, while strengthening their bonds and company principles.

Challenge:

Our client came to us looking for a full design concept for their Gala Dinner in Seattle. The dinner was for 1000 guests and the client could not find a local event management team that had the décor quantities or the man power to run the event.

Engage:

We were able to accommodate the request and shipped our team to Seattle to make this event a success! We brought in every décor aspect for the Gala Dinner: chairs, tables, linen, centerpieces, place settings, china, and glassware. The room was tied together using lighted table bases which collectively transformed the venue space.

Resolve:

The décor successfully transformed the large empty hall into a chic and elegant dinner venue. We succeeded in making the clients vision come to life and the evening was beautiful.

Challenge:

Our client had a last minute request for fun décor ideas for their Rock N’ Roll themed dinner in a hotel ballroom. They also needed staffing to help with their registration.

Engage:

We pulled together a proposal with a multitude of décor options and the client decided on some fun linen, centerpieces, and an entrance piece. With these touches the room transformed into a Rock N’ Roll themed party. Our staff worked with the client for the whole conference with registration and various administrative tasks.

Resolve:

The décor successfully transformed the meeting space into a themed party where guests enjoyed their evening. The décor and our staff helped the clients have a successful end to their conference.

Challenge:

Our client was looking for an event management company to customized team building concept as well as a sophisticated reception in Las Vegas. They also requested some event staff that could smoothly run the game.

Engage:

We decided to create a customized family feud team building game to fit for their group. We also suggested to open the airwall between the team building and their reception so that the additional guests could sit at the cocktail rounds we provided.

Resolve:

Adding that connection to the reception area and the team building created a great flow and the guests had a blast. We were able to open up the wall within minutes and had no delays. We also were able to add in some smaller activities that could keep guests busy in addition to the big team building game.

Challenge:

Our client wanted to throw a Super Bowl viewing party at a popular restaurant located on the Las Vegas Strip. They were interested in unique branding ideas and functional seating.

Engage:

We did multiple consultations at the restaurant in order to determine how to best utilize the space. We proposed comfortable black couches and sleek black high boys. For branding we clinged all of the restaurants stools, customized coasters, branded the highboys and created logo’s pillows on the couches. Aside from décor we also provided round trip airport transportation for all guests.

Resolve:

The party was a hit! Branding was optimized throughout the space and there was plenty of comfortable seating for the guests.

Challenge:

Our client wanted to create an Innovation Lounge in a suite at a hotel on the Las Vegas strip. The lounge would serve as a place for vendor partners to showcase to clients during CES.

Engage:

We converted a standard hotel hospitality suite into a modern lounge. We removed all the furniture in the space, designed a floor plan and selected furniture that provided ample seating and had a fresh design.

Resolve:

Successfully created a lounge with a modern feel that had enough seating and space for vendors to effectively present their products.

Challenge:

Our client came to us looking for décor and entertainment for their awards show for the end of their conference. They were looking for an elegant design while still remaining cost efficient.

Engage:

We provided elegant floral centerpieces along with plant groupings for the stage. For the tables we used navy blue linen and white napkins for a crisp visual. We brought in showgirls to greet the guests and hand out awards on stage to the winners.

Resolve:

The room had an sophisticated look and the client was amazed with the design. The showgirls brought a fun Vegas ambiance to the event!

Challenge:

Our client came to us and asked to help with their Alumni Dinner Event.  They were not sure which theme to go with other than they new it had to be something magical and fairytale like.  They didn’t have a big budget but they wanted to make sure the décor was impactful and “wow” the guests.

Engage:

Our creative team got together and gave them several options of themes and the one they chose was the Alice in Wonderland Theme.  We used large colorful props that we already had in our warehouse and brought in a backdrop to create the look and feel of the theme.

Resolve:

The guests were absolutely pleased and needless to say, we were awarded the business again!

Challenge:

Our client just went through a merger and acquisition and needed to put together a teambuilding event that will bring all top executives together. Total of 250 Vice Presidents were invited to this event held in Las Vegas. We needed to create an environment where people are encouraged to mix and mingle for 3 days. We were also tasked with making sure these top executives walk away with understanding the branding of the company, learn a bit more about the CEO and have complete understanding of the company mission and it’s culture.

Engage:

The group stayed in one of the major hotels in Las Vegas. We provided 2 teambuilding programs, one with a charity component and the other was pure fun and exciting, “Backyard Brawl” program. We offered three off site venues every night and brought in entertainment along with the various items that encouraged our client to mix and mingle. We put together a musical skit where the company culture was explained in a humorous way. We chose a venue on the first night that had incredible spot for branding opportunity. We also provided registration system, air reservation, hotel selection, staffing, ground transportation, teambuilding, off site selection, décor, room drop and branding.

Resolve:

The attendees truly had a bonding experience and walked away with a great understanding of the company culture.

Challenge:

Wellpet launched their new brand of pet food called TruFood. They wanted to introduce their new product to their retailers and the Animal Supply Company at the SuperZoo trade show. The food is grain-free, with whole foods from farm, field and sea. They wanted turn the venue into a mini-show room displaying the product and create brand awareness Showcasing and highlighting the actual ingredients in the food including beets, turnips, carrots, blueberries and more.

Engage:

We converted a regular and high end restaurant at Four Seasons into a rustic, farm-to-table all-natural feel & environment. We create a live greenery wall and tables featuring fruit and vegetable. We filled baskets and mason jars with sorted ingredients giving the room a burst of color. Throughout the venue, we had TruFood inspired window clings surrounding the room and a live mixologist created drinks named and made from ingredients featured in the food. At the entrance of the venue, we set up a a branded cart filled with bags of TruFood.

Resolve:

A very successful well-attended event that gave their guests an up-close and personal taste of what it means to be a WellPet partner.

Challenge:

We helped Robert last year putting together an employee appreciation event at Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. This year, they wanted to go somewhere completed different. We were challenged with finding a destination that is fun, exclusive and it had to be a “wow” experience.

Engage:

We picked Dominican Republic as the destination. We proposed a very exclusive and all inclusive reach resort, Casa de Campo located in La Romana. We coordinated golf, skeet shooting, tennis, chartered a yacht, snorkeling, teambuilding programs, welcome reception with entertainment, gala night and a party to remember. We handled everything from site selection, audio visual, catering, menu selection, hotel selection, venue selection and ground transportation.

Resolve:

Everyone was blown away with such an amazing resort and had a wonderful time and we will plan their next event.

Challenge:

We serviced this client last year and at that time, they had a different event manager that helped the client put together a small tradeshow. The client was not happy with the service. They normally buy out a couple of floors at one of the finest hotels in Las Vegas and create a tradeshow environment. Each room gets occupied by an exhibitor and all potential customers make appointments. They needed help with registration process, collecting appropriate funds, hotel contract negotiation, food & beverage, special networking event set up, décor, exhibitor booth set up, entertainment for the networking event and staffing for registration and for meet & greet.

Engage:

First we created a registration link for all exhibitors to easily sign up and register for the event. We negotiated hotel contract terms for our clients from attrition rate, cancel policy, food & beverage min and of course rate negotiation. We had one point of contact for our client where he was able to communicate everything through our manager. We handled all questions from the exhibitors for set up, food & beverage and audio visual needs. We hired appropriate staff to run the registration at the special networking event and management everything from start to finish.

Resolve:

The event was a big success and we look forward to putting together our next event in New York!!

Challenge:

Canadian Dairy Queen has bi-annual tradeshow where they gather all of their franchisees and have a tradeshow. They needed a band that is lively, entertaining and interactive. This year, they had their convention at Atlantis in Bahamas. They also needed help with setting up a stage.

Engage:

We proposed a 10-Piece band that generates a contagious enthusiasm. The audience enjoys listening and everyone dances and has fun at your party. Often the evening starts with quiet background music during cocktails or dinner, then things pick up and the fun and excitement begins. They customize the song list just for CDQ and it was a huge hit.

Resolve:

They loved the band so much, they requested for the same band for 2 years in a row.