Portfolio
The Circus Rolls into Town for a Vintage Gala Event!
For the past five years, Digital Window has entrusted Bamboo to organise their annual gala event for 500 guests. Providing original, memorable and quirky ideas (ensuring that each year is better than the last!) the theme was sure to satisfy, delight and entertain. After all... the circus was coming to town!
To the guests delight a traditional Ringmaster, elegant miniature horses and bearded ladies welcomed everyone on arrival to 'Parlari – A Show To Behold'.
On entering the drinks reception, large circus wagons were in situ next to discarded animal cages, hessian sacks and crates. The circus labourer's campfire was positioned alongside the star performers dressing area – a sumptuous boudoir of velvet drapes, make up mirrors, costumes and opulent furniture. Throughout the space circus posters had been flyposted to brick walls with larger billboards showcasing Parlari's entertainers.
Guests enjoyed the champagne and canapés, as a peculiar walking box could be spied roaming the room. In other areas vintage strongmen were lifting guests off their feet, while elsewhere shrieks were heard as a result of our resident circus magician. As guests attempted vintage circus tricks with Parlari's show girls, our star performer made his show stopping appearance, as a trained circus polar bear astounded guests!
Dinner was announced and guests made their way through to Parlari's Big Top. In between courses guests were entertained by Parlari's traditional troupe of clowns, a marvellous highwire beauty, a remarkable hula artist and a mesmerising foot juggler.
The Big Top was teared down while guests continued the festivities at Parlari's afterhour's fairground. Vintage stalls adorned the room, as Parlari's ice circus elephant captivated, the test of strength enthralled and the candy floss machine churned. Partying until the early hour's, guests literally stepped into the circus with Parlari's fire leaping tiger, as fates were foretold inside the mystical fortunes tellers' tent.
Bamboo Transforms Empty Space into a Launch Event Venue!
Bamboo strives to exceed our client's expectations and that's precisely what happened when we transformed an empty North London office floor, into a first class launch event.
Having expanded its Data Centre facilities, Bamboo were asked to convert a windowless open floor of white walls, ceilings and concrete flooring into a contemporary, stylish and memorable event space.
The room was divided into two key areas allowing for a back of house / catering preparation area for staff and a main event area for guests, denoted by a large area of bright lime green carpet. Bamboo provided a stage set for the welcome speeches and presentations, along with seating for all on white cushioned stools with glass poser tables. The final elements to dramatically transform the space were 30 LED uplighters and a high specification sound system.
Bamboo provided full onsite catering and equipment, including waiting staff and chefs who produced a delicious breakfast menu and substantial canapés to the guests delight. We also took care of the finer details of the event by providing onsite entertainment as a memento of the day, floral displays and of course, a lime green welcome carpet at the facilities main entrance.
"Thank you to you and your team too.
Everyone is still raving about the event - 10 out of 10!!"
It goes to show that Bamboo Events can turn any space into a funky, corporate event venue!
A Summer School First for KPMG!
After a year of meticulous planning, Bamboo successfully organised the first KPMG Risk Consulting Summer School for 1,500 international delegates. One of Bamboo's best events to date; Summer School was held over a 2 week period at the University of Reading – a fitting choice for any residential training event.
With the exclusive hire of a central academic building including 15 training rooms and a main auditorium with bespoke stage set, delegates were able to build their own personalised agenda, through a pre-event online registration system. To create a true Summer School atmosphere and reinforce the KPMG brand, the training facility was transformed inside and out with internal graphics, exhibition panels, welcome signage and eye catching banners applied directly to the façade of the building.
Outside of the training days and into the evenings, networking was extremely important and a programme of social activities were designed for delegates to enrol in throughout the campus – football, volleyball and rounder's at the SportsPark and quiz nights, rodeo bulls and pool at the Student Union.
Mid-week delegates were brought together to attend a conference in a specially built 2,625sqm marquee. Kitted out with the highest specification AV including an impressive 15m screen and full black out, the delegates enjoyed a unique day of inspirational guests speakers, enjoyable energisers, group activities and a leading facilitator to ensure energy levels rocked!
Later that evening delegates were whisked off campus to attend the KPMG Gala Dinner – an evening of fine wine and dining, tight rope, fire and aerial acts, casino tables, fairground rides and dancing.
The core Bamboo team including an additional 14 support staff were onsite throughout the entire 2 week project to make sure everything ran smoothly. Each element of the delegate's time onsite at the event was taken care of from arrival and departure transfers, welcome packs, superb facilities, networking and social activities. School may be out, but plans are already in full swing for next year's event!
Stylish Design for Cannes Lions Gala Parties
With Bamboo's proven track record in memorable party planning, we were asked to provide a fresh design concept for the Cannes Lions Opening and Closing Gala Parties held at the Intercontinental Carlton Hotel. Located directly on the Mediterranean, in front of the famous Croisette, Bamboo suggested a stylish beach nightclub theme based on those found in Ibiza, Miami and Marbella!
The main focus of the event was the highly spec'd lighting and sound, designed to blow people away! Working around the hotels operational restaurant and beach club, a truss system covering 5 separate areas was erected over two nights to house the equipment and to suspend all decorations. After all, with 3,500 guests attending the Opening Gala Party and a record breaking 4,500 attending the Closing, floor space was at a premium!
The private VIP zone was sectioned off from the rest of the party with a wall of crystal beads and stretched neon drapes, which also semi enclosed the ceiling of the structure, but still allowed guests to watch the Closing Gala firework display. The neon drapes were also used to create a crown effect DJ backdrop, the perfect launch pad for crowd surfing towards the end of the night!
Working with a selection of British and French suppliers, Caraibi blue carpet laid for the Opening Gala (in the VIP Zone, throughout the dance floor and along the pier), changed to a Fuchsia Pink for the Closing Gala. Along the pier were staggered light balloons branded with the Cannes Lions logo. White, comfortable lounge furniture allowed guests to soak up the unforgettable atmosphere!
Digital Window Mesmerised at Wonderland!
For Bamboo's fourth year running and now 500 guests, Digital Window's annual gala event; 'Wonderland' – a high society garden themed party with a dark and mysterious twist - didn't disappoint!
Held at one of London's best corporate event venues, topiary men escorted guests along the green carpet where live column statues sprinkled glitter on arrival, before orchid buttonholes were assigned. Upon entering the drinks reception guests were greeted and entertained by beautifully themed hostesses and treated to sumptuous canapés and pink Champagne, whilst also chilling out to the five piece band who casually roamed the indoor garden party, complete with its very own lawn. Guests enjoyed the human bronze statue who intermittently played tricks on passers-by as they navigated the white picket fencing, stone fountain and cast iron benches.
The setting for dinner was a dark and eerie forest with an 18ft shadowy tree standing tall amongst clusters of large and unusual mushrooms. Solitary light bulbs with vintage lampshades hung around the room at various heights, with branches, cats eyes and hearts projected around the walls, amid bursts of lightning and thunder throughout the evening.
During the three course meal, guests were mesmerised by an assortment of entertainment. Captivating juggling, a contortionist and a stunning acrobalance performance rotated around the room to ensure no one missed out on the spectacular.
After dinner and to the guest's surprise, the drinks reception garden party had been trashed to make way for a dark, warehouse themed after party. Once elegant statues were covered in tattoos, lipstick, wigs and sunglasses. Discarded oil barrels, cargo crates and traffic lights cluttered the space next to a bespoke graffiti 'Wonderland' DJ booth. Late into the night guests had their fortunes told, dressed up on the photo set, played giant garden games and enjoyed the now infamous ice sculpture vodka luge!
European Exhibition Solutions for Iron Mountain
Iron Mountain the global leader in information protection and storage services, contacted Bamboo Events Ltd in 2006 to consolidate the management of their European exhibition attendance, whilst also securing additional resource for their in-house Marketing team.
Since then, Bamboo has continued to provide annual exhibition stand solutions to reinforce the Iron Mountain brand image and promote key products and services in a professional, concise and uniformed manner across all European markets.
"Bamboo's designs are extremely original whilst keeping to our brief with regard to corporate image. The themes used have provided us with outstanding booths at all of our European trade shows"
In designing the concept, Bamboo's first aim is to create a memorable focal point to grab visitor's attention and draw them onto the stand. In previous years it was achieved with the design and build of a large replica vault, to boost Iron Mountain's message. Alongside the vault, a specially developed competition created an opening interaction with visitors, ensuring a high volume of leads from each and every event.
More recent stand designs reflected a change in corporate image and incorporated demonstration areas (with specially design interactive gaming experiences) and a sociable bar and meeting point which also doubled as a live presentation feature, attracting additional footfall to the stand.
A Fashionable Showcase Event
Attracting over 1,300 visitors in its first year and 2,400 in its second, Bamboo Events Ltd was delighted to be a part of the team responsible for managing a debut event, to showcase the talent and quality available from London based manufactures and designers.
The high profile event included bringing together fashion shows, industry leading workshops, an exhibition with over 80 exhibitors, exclusive Gala evenings and after show parties at the Business Design Centre, Islington.
The team worked closely with event stakeholders to handle all the event logistics, from venue layout, workshop scheduling and supplier liaison to exhibitor and sponsor recruitment, delegate registration, food and beverage, press and photography management, event branding and website maintenance, guaranteeing a cohesive programme and interactive event experience.
"From what I've seen this is the best event by far, so repeat this again, the formula seems to be working."
The events team were also responsible for securing and managing exhibitors at the event, designing and allocating the layout of the show floor and the collecting exhibitor funds. Shell scheme packages were designed for exhibitors and venue branding was arranged, including the design and print of show guides.
An online system was utilized to ensure the easy registration of a variety of categorized delegates, press, photographers and film crew and a specially planned onsite system ensured the prompt access of visitors on arrival. The team managed all venue liaison and onsite requirements to include health and safety and risk assessments. We also provided dedicated budgetary control, onsite management and post event analysis.
Unforgettable Business Incentive to Los Angeles, USA
Bamboo Events Ltd were approached to design, implement and manage a business incentive to Los Angeles, USA for a leading computer technology company. Having recommended the programme for the 5 day event and awarded the project only 4 weeks prior to travel, the team set to work on the logistical arrangements.
Bamboo specially created registration forms to record important guest information such as contact details, dietary needs, passport credentials, accommodation requirements and tour objectives. Guests received emails confirming their attendance, along with a pre-event teaser outlining the event programme, items to pack and weather forecasts.
"Many thanks for all your help and expertise on the trip. The whole event went very smoothly and it proved to be a most enjoyable experience."
On the day of departure, Bamboo's Event Manager was onsite to greet guests at London's Heathrow Airport and accompany them to the States. Welcome packs were distributed, allowing guests to review the event itinerary and biographies from the fellow attendees during the flight. Hostesses were on hand to escort the group by luxury coach from LAX Airport to the Westin Bonaventure Hotel.
Welcome letters and gifts were placed inside guests bedrooms prior to arrival, before a buffet reception in the Bonavista Lounge – a revolving bar on the 34th floor offering unrivalled views over the city.
To ensure the trip was memorable and that guests had the opportunity to experience Los Angeles, carefully thought-out social activities were arranged. This included access to a VIP Suite at the Staples Centre to attend the LA Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves basketball game. A private buffet and bar, Lakers t-shirts and baseball caps were available for all.
"I can honestly say this was the best organised event I have attended! Many thanks for all your hard work."
The programme also included a walking tour and dinner in Hollywood, visiting Grauman's Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Sign and the El Capitan Theatre.
On the final day, guests were transferred to Santa Monica for lunch followed by a guided tour of its landmark attraction; the Santa Monica Pier. After free time to shop and on the return journey to LAX Airport, a short stop was made to visit Venice / 'Muscle' Beach and watch the sunset. A fitting end to an unforgettable programme in LA – the city of Angels!
A Sumptuous, Eccentric & Elaborate Execution for Digital Window!
For the second year running Bamboo organised Digital Window's annual Gala Event. With our brief purely to create a very different evening from the previous year's 'Nakama', in terms of theme and guest experience, we secured what's said to be one of London's best dining halls in the World...usually only available for dignitaries! The Whitehall location was the set for 'An Elaborate Execution' – an evening of sophistication, theatre, adventure and surprise!
Guests were greeted on arrival by two Georgian Footmen and personally escorted into the building, during bursts of comic entertainment and mime where they were welcomed by delightful ladies and the evening's eccentric host.
Entering a vaulted drinking den, the residential pickpocket and mind reader entertained during the drinks reception, as mouth-watering canapés and drinks were served.
Later, our host announced that dinner was to be served and, taking his ladies by the arm, invited everyone into the magnificent dining room, adorned with golden lit pillars, a spectacular Ruben's painted ceiling, opulent table decorations and a mesmerising harpist.
Our host and his ladies took their place at the throne, while a sumptuous 3 course meal was served. A string quartet entertained with classical music during the meal, ending with a standing ovation to a more modern, rocky performance during dessert. The pièce de résistance to the dinner took its homage to King James I, as an elaborate execution of our very own was staged.
After dinner, guests were invited into the drinking den which had been transformed with comfortable furniture and the customary ice sculpture vodka luge. On closing of the bar, a local nightclub provided the perfect location for the after show party until the very early hours of the morning!
A Japanese Extravaganza for Digital Window!
Bamboo Events Ltd created a Japanese extravaganza for Digital Window and their annual Gala Event; a breathtaking mix of the world renowned culture entitled Nakama!
On arrival guests were welcomed by a human Manga doll, Geisha's on stilts and Harajuku girls surrounded by Japanese maple trees.
A grand Torri gate adorned the entrance to the draped drinks reception elaborately dressed with hanging lanterns, a hand crafted oriental bar and low level red lighting. Japanese musicians set the tranquil ambience, as a sushi chef provided canapés and guests received themed caricatures and origami gifts.
The well known Kill Bill theme song announced the unveiling of the main dining area, decorated in neon drapes, with Japanese themed banners and anime projections. Taiko Drummers performed as guests found their seats and enjoyed the lavish Japanese infused menu.
As the dinner came to an end a giant 7ft robot burst into the room and charged amongst the tables – some guests were terrified and some were in awe, while others were romantically serenaded!
After dinner there were queues at the dragon vodka luge, green screen imaging to transport guests into their very own Japanese scene, dancing with the human Manga doll and Toshi... the bubble wrapped, game playing, pouchy-pouchy singing, bizarre Japanese girl!
The evening continued into the early hours of the morning at the after show party, the end of a highly acclaimed and memorable evening and a project for the Bamboo Events team to top again next year!
Secret to a Great Christmas Party!
Organising a Christmas Party can be an uncertain and daunting prospect. Often due to the level of detail involved, lack of time and the stress of wanting to organise a really good night for yourself and the people you work with. The secret to a great Christmas Party is to start planning early!
Bamboo takes the stress out of Christmas by helping our clients take care of all the details. Our services include sourcing suitable venues, supporting you with the invitation process and providing onsite management to ensure the party runs smoothly.
To create the right atmosphere Bamboo provides design and theming for the evening, from colour schemes and table centres to the design and production of table's plans, place cards, menus and Christmas gifts.
The right level of entertainment is important at a Christmas Party. Bamboo will recommend the most suitable DJ's, live bands, roaming acts and after dinner entertainment, from our extensive supplier database ensuring your guests have a night to remember!
"Planning the Christmas Party ourselves was proving time consuming. Contacting Bamboo relieved the pressures of coming up with ingenious ideas, as well as setting everything up on the evening. For so many years it was such a rush to set up the function room, before we would dash off to get ready and be back in time to welcome our guests. Now we enjoy ourselves along with everybody else!"
If you already have an idea but don't know how to implement it, need new inspiration or are purely looking for additional support in organising your Christmas party, Bamboo is the place to start. It's never too early to start planning – others already have to ensure they secure the best dates, venues, rates and entertainment available!