ILEA MINNEAPOLIS ST. PAUL IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS OF THE 2017 MINNESOTA STAR AWARDS
BEST CATERING SPECIALTY ITEM
Frank Soukup - Grand View Lodge
Distilled Spirits Dinner
Distilled is a weekend event created to showcase Small Craft Distillers and Artisan meats by local suppliers from the Midwest. The event features culinary masterpieces, classes and seminars that teach the science behind the art of mixology, and so much more.
________________________________________
BEST CATERING MENU INNOVATION
Rachel Bruzek, D’Amico Catering
Twelve Course Amusement Dinner
The client came to us with a request to do something their guests had never experienced at a Top Performers Dinner before. This group had been everywhere and seen everything. The client wanted this to be an experience for her guests revolving around the dinner. She requested a multi-course, tasting dinner in a catered setting for 200 guests.
________________________________________
BEST CATERING ON-PREMISE CATERED EVENT
Elizabeth Sherry - Culinaire at the Guthrie
Bali Ha'i Ball
This Minneapolis iconic theater for one night only took patrons back in time to World War II set on an exotic island in the South Pacific for the Bali Ha’i Ball. The event fed off of the Polynesian theme to enrich the overall experience, from before the curtains were drawn to after the stand ovation.
________________________________________
BEST CATERING OFF-PREMISE CATERED EVENT
Cindy Walker - Mintahoe Catering & Events
Sweet Tooth Satisfaction
This Miami Chic awards gala was the perfect setting for a whimsical glowing dessert display. Over 800 hand-decorated desserts reflected immaculate detail. This Sweet Tooth Satisfaction Station looked too good to eat. Almost.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – BEST USE OF FLORAL
Tara Carlson - Sweet Peas Floral
Laura & Christopher
This ‘Woodland Elegance’ wedding was set in the prime of autumnal colors with the Bride wearing a custom fit floral ‘Boa’. The event itself was an eclectic mix of tastes to bring out the personalities of the couple. The overall concept of the event was to bring the outside in.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – TABLE TOP DESIGN
Gretchen Berry - Gretchen Berry Design Co.
Cadence Cornelius - Cadence & Eli
Gretchen Culver - Rocket Science Weddings & Events
Industrial Bacon Style Shoot
This fine-art styled shoot was inspired by the painting “1946” by Francis Bacon. Utilizing unconventional color combinations, interesting textures and patterns, and dramatic floral this innovative tabletop pushed the boundaries of design and proves that there is beauty in the darkness.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – UNDER $25,000
Maren Obermeyer, CMP - RBC Wealth Management
Elizabeth Silverman - BeEvents Design
2016 Connect Conference Reception
By designing a prohibition themed corporate reception, we provided an escape from a full day of education and networking sessions. Using wood, whiskey, and library themed décor, we crafted a sophisticated speakeasy retreat for guests to enjoy.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – OVER $25,000
Kalie Cole - BeEvents Design
Feeling Minnesotan
When corporate sponsors for a major sporting event descended upon the Twin Cities for a FAM trip, they were treated to an evening reception which whisked them on an interactive journey and twisted expectations on the concept of “Feeling Minnesotan.”
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – MARKETING/GRAPHIC DESIGN
Frank Soukup - Grand View Lodge
Distilled: Craft Spirits and Artisan Meats
Distilled is a weekend event created to showcase Small Craft Distillers and Artisan meats by local suppliers from the Midwest. The event features culinary masterpieces, classes and seminars that teach the science behind the art of mixology, and so much more.
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – PHOTOGRAPHY - WEDDING
Jeannine Pohl - Jeannine Marie Photography
Joyous Day of Two Families Uniting - Mike & Christine
A beautiful September wedding at an outdoor chapel and the reception at a country club. Christine and Mike’s elegant, meaningful details, vibrant smiles and energy of the couple’s wedding day can be seen in their photographs, as well as the genuine relationships between the couple and their loved ones.
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – PHOTOGRAPHY - NON-WEDDING
Joe Szurszewski - Joe Szurszewski Photography
Thrivent Financial Field Leadership Strategy Conference
The photography of the 2016 FLSC artfully captured the vibrant feel of the Cancun location for this multi-day conference. The colorful Mexican décor and entertainment at the various events was designed to recognize and reward high-performing field leaders, and the faces of attendees in the photos illustrates the client’s successful results.
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – EVENT FILMAKING
Heather Zehr - Enticing Entertainment
Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner, P.A. Holiday Extravaganza
An evening of extravagant entertainment created the perfect environment to celebrate the holiday season and put a twist on the traditional. This corporate incentive event wowed guests with stunning performances and engaging, interactive experiences all night long.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – LOGISTICS
Diana Brasch, CMM & Peter Provost - Propel Event Transportation
CSCOE Mass of the Holy Spirit
A first-time event of 12,000 Catholic School Children transported on school buses to CHS Stadium for an outdoor “Mass of The Holy Spirit”. The event logistics included managing 240 school buses to drop off and pick up, assigned seating, a Mass from the Arch Bishop, 60 priests simultaneously serving communion, lunch and all within a 4-hour timeline.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – RENTALS (NON-TENTING)
Colin Ericson - BeThings Design
Harvest Crush Reception
Our client invited us to support their Harvest Crush themed executive reception which was hosted in late October 2016. Through a use of rental lounge furniture, scenic elements and custom chandeliers, we were able to create a vineyard worthy celebration space for 150 executives to mingle and dine with wine after a long day of meetings.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – TECHNICAL PRODUCTION
Larry King - AVEX
Unity Point Leadership Symposium
This annual meeting brought together over 1600 healthcare leaders from around the nation. With the ever-changing landscape of the healthcare system, having a clear brand strategy is crucial to achieving the organizations goal of providing top-quality patient care.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – TENT INSTALLATION
Timothy Smith - Ultimate Events
Longhouse Tent
A custom designed aluminum and glass tent structure was installed as a focal point for an enhanced fan experience at the new US Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis. The tent was designed to mimic the grandeur of the new stadium itself.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION
Heather Zehr - Enticing Entertainment
Schwegman, Lundbery & Woessner, P.A. Holiday Extravaganza
An evening of extravagant entertainment created the perfect environment to celebrate the holiday season and put a twist on the traditional. This corporate incentive event wowed guests with stunning performances and engaging, interactive experiences all night long.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – CORPORATE
Brooklyn Lafky - Event Lab
Heather Zehr - Enticing Entertainment
Schwegman, Lundbery & Woessner, P.A. Holiday Extravaganza
An evening of extravagant entertainment created the perfect environment to celebrate the holiday season and put a twist on the traditional. This corporate incentive event wowed guests with stunning performances and engaging, interactive experiences all night long.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – NON-PROFIT
Haley Matthews-Jones - Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation
2016 Heartbeat Gala
The 2016 Heartbeat Gala was a night of innovation and discovery. From the carefully curated menu highlighting breakthroughs in the culinary arts to an unforgettable keynote speech by NASA astronauts and identical twins Captains Scott and Mark Kelly, the event pushed the boundaries of the imagination and challenged guests to reach for the stars.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – PUBLIC
Char Mason & Cookie Coleman - Coleman Mason Events
Jill Blihovde - Showcore
Hormel Foods 125th Anniversary Celebration
Over 20,000 people attended Hormel Foods 125th Anniversary Celebration and Grand Opening of the new and improved SPAM Museum. The public street festival featured the Hormel crafts & games, three stages, food trucks, activities for all ages and performances by Kat Perkins and headliners The Band Perry. The day ended with dazzling fireworks.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – SOCIAL
Kalie Cole - BeEvent Design
Feeling Minnesotan
When corporate sponsors for a major sporting event descended upon the Twin Cities for a FAM trip, they were treated to an evening reception which whisked them on an interactive journey and twisted expectations on the concept of “Feeling Minnesotan.”
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – WEDDING UNDER $50,000
Faith Folayan - This Love Weddings
Enchanted Park Wedding
Hannah + Scott brought family from across the country to celebrate their love here in the Twin Cities. Guests entered into their enchanted park and set out to make their 150 guest wedding celebration an intimate one.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – WEDDING OVER $50,000
Elizabeth Partyka - Avant Decor
Sara Trotter - Lasting Impressions Weddings
Katiee Wandmacher - Après Party & Tent Rental
A Landmark Wedding
A lavish wedding celebration was held for a couple with true Minnesota pedigree—the bride was a former Miss Minnesota, and the groom was a member of the Minnesota Vikings! Each venue the couple selected for their event mirrored the beauty of St. Paul’s architecture and history.
________________________________________
BEST ILEA TEAM EFFORT
Ryan Hanson, CSEP - BeEvents Design
Laurie McVean - Lauren B Photography
Kathy Mrozek - Windmill Design
Molly O'Hearn - EideCom
Jessica Ruth - Children's Cancer Research Fund
Dawn of a Dream
In November 2016 over 800 guests gathered for an exhilarating night of fun with a critical mission; raise funds to cure childhood cancer. The mission was kept well-alive by raising nearly $1.2 million dollars. Guests were inspired by our “Limitless” theme throughout the evening; in hopes that every child’s future is limitless upon finding a cure.
________________________________________
ILEA VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Mark Miller - AVEX
This year's volunteer of the year is a person that, while newer to our ILEA community, has made themselves indispensable. A true event professional, this person has simultaneously managed to win the hearts of ILEA members with his savvy networking skills, all while helping to produce our monthly events both fundamentally and logistically. He embodies the spirit of our community with kind words, bold ideas and hard work. Congratulations to ILEA MSP volunteer of the year, Mark Miller of AVEX!
________________________________________
ILEA PARTNER OF THE YEAR
Jeannine Pohl - Jeannine Marie Photography
If there was a box entitled 'grand slam', this year's ILEA MSP Partner of the Year would check that box and then some. For years, this organization has gone the extra mile to capture the ins and outs of our busy chapter -- both the activities and the individuals. This partner has documented our history, focused on our ILEA family and made it possible to share our happenings with our global community. She is an industry leader, a team player through and through and an incredible photographer. Congratulations to ILEA MSP partner of the year, Jeannine Pohl of Jeannine Marie Photography!
Frank Soukup - Grand View Lodge
Distilled Spirits Dinner
Distilled is a weekend event created to showcase Small Craft Distillers and Artisan meats by local suppliers from the Midwest. The event features culinary masterpieces, classes and seminars that teach the science behind the art of mixology, and so much more.
________________________________________
BEST CATERING MENU INNOVATION
Rachel Bruzek, D’Amico Catering
Twelve Course Amusement Dinner
The client came to us with a request to do something their guests had never experienced at a Top Performers Dinner before. This group had been everywhere and seen everything. The client wanted this to be an experience for her guests revolving around the dinner. She requested a multi-course, tasting dinner in a catered setting for 200 guests.
________________________________________
BEST CATERING ON-PREMISE CATERED EVENT
Elizabeth Sherry - Culinaire at the Guthrie
Bali Ha'i Ball
This Minneapolis iconic theater for one night only took patrons back in time to World War II set on an exotic island in the South Pacific for the Bali Ha’i Ball. The event fed off of the Polynesian theme to enrich the overall experience, from before the curtains were drawn to after the stand ovation.
________________________________________
BEST CATERING OFF-PREMISE CATERED EVENT
Cindy Walker - Mintahoe Catering & Events
Sweet Tooth Satisfaction
This Miami Chic awards gala was the perfect setting for a whimsical glowing dessert display. Over 800 hand-decorated desserts reflected immaculate detail. This Sweet Tooth Satisfaction Station looked too good to eat. Almost.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – BEST USE OF FLORAL
Tara Carlson - Sweet Peas Floral
Laura & Christopher
This ‘Woodland Elegance’ wedding was set in the prime of autumnal colors with the Bride wearing a custom fit floral ‘Boa’. The event itself was an eclectic mix of tastes to bring out the personalities of the couple. The overall concept of the event was to bring the outside in.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – TABLE TOP DESIGN
Gretchen Berry - Gretchen Berry Design Co.
Cadence Cornelius - Cadence & Eli
Gretchen Culver - Rocket Science Weddings & Events
Industrial Bacon Style Shoot
This fine-art styled shoot was inspired by the painting “1946” by Francis Bacon. Utilizing unconventional color combinations, interesting textures and patterns, and dramatic floral this innovative tabletop pushed the boundaries of design and proves that there is beauty in the darkness.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – UNDER $25,000
Maren Obermeyer, CMP - RBC Wealth Management
Elizabeth Silverman - BeEvents Design
2016 Connect Conference Reception
By designing a prohibition themed corporate reception, we provided an escape from a full day of education and networking sessions. Using wood, whiskey, and library themed décor, we crafted a sophisticated speakeasy retreat for guests to enjoy.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT DESIGN & DÉCOR – OVER $25,000
Kalie Cole - BeEvents Design
Feeling Minnesotan
When corporate sponsors for a major sporting event descended upon the Twin Cities for a FAM trip, they were treated to an evening reception which whisked them on an interactive journey and twisted expectations on the concept of “Feeling Minnesotan.”
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – MARKETING/GRAPHIC DESIGN
Frank Soukup - Grand View Lodge
Distilled: Craft Spirits and Artisan Meats
Distilled is a weekend event created to showcase Small Craft Distillers and Artisan meats by local suppliers from the Midwest. The event features culinary masterpieces, classes and seminars that teach the science behind the art of mixology, and so much more.
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – PHOTOGRAPHY - WEDDING
Jeannine Pohl - Jeannine Marie Photography
Joyous Day of Two Families Uniting - Mike & Christine
A beautiful September wedding at an outdoor chapel and the reception at a country club. Christine and Mike’s elegant, meaningful details, vibrant smiles and energy of the couple’s wedding day can be seen in their photographs, as well as the genuine relationships between the couple and their loved ones.
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – PHOTOGRAPHY - NON-WEDDING
Joe Szurszewski - Joe Szurszewski Photography
Thrivent Financial Field Leadership Strategy Conference
The photography of the 2016 FLSC artfully captured the vibrant feel of the Cancun location for this multi-day conference. The colorful Mexican décor and entertainment at the various events was designed to recognize and reward high-performing field leaders, and the faces of attendees in the photos illustrates the client’s successful results.
________________________________________
BEST CREATIVE SERVICES – EVENT FILMAKING
Heather Zehr - Enticing Entertainment
Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner, P.A. Holiday Extravaganza
An evening of extravagant entertainment created the perfect environment to celebrate the holiday season and put a twist on the traditional. This corporate incentive event wowed guests with stunning performances and engaging, interactive experiences all night long.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – LOGISTICS
Diana Brasch, CMM & Peter Provost - Propel Event Transportation
CSCOE Mass of the Holy Spirit
A first-time event of 12,000 Catholic School Children transported on school buses to CHS Stadium for an outdoor “Mass of The Holy Spirit”. The event logistics included managing 240 school buses to drop off and pick up, assigned seating, a Mass from the Arch Bishop, 60 priests simultaneously serving communion, lunch and all within a 4-hour timeline.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – RENTALS (NON-TENTING)
Colin Ericson - BeThings Design
Harvest Crush Reception
Our client invited us to support their Harvest Crush themed executive reception which was hosted in late October 2016. Through a use of rental lounge furniture, scenic elements and custom chandeliers, we were able to create a vineyard worthy celebration space for 150 executives to mingle and dine with wine after a long day of meetings.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – TECHNICAL PRODUCTION
Larry King - AVEX
Unity Point Leadership Symposium
This annual meeting brought together over 1600 healthcare leaders from around the nation. With the ever-changing landscape of the healthcare system, having a clear brand strategy is crucial to achieving the organizations goal of providing top-quality patient care.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – TENT INSTALLATION
Timothy Smith - Ultimate Events
Longhouse Tent
A custom designed aluminum and glass tent structure was installed as a focal point for an enhanced fan experience at the new US Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis. The tent was designed to mimic the grandeur of the new stadium itself.
________________________________________
BEST SUPPORT SERVICES – ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION
Heather Zehr - Enticing Entertainment
Schwegman, Lundbery & Woessner, P.A. Holiday Extravaganza
An evening of extravagant entertainment created the perfect environment to celebrate the holiday season and put a twist on the traditional. This corporate incentive event wowed guests with stunning performances and engaging, interactive experiences all night long.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – CORPORATE
Brooklyn Lafky - Event Lab
Heather Zehr - Enticing Entertainment
Schwegman, Lundbery & Woessner, P.A. Holiday Extravaganza
An evening of extravagant entertainment created the perfect environment to celebrate the holiday season and put a twist on the traditional. This corporate incentive event wowed guests with stunning performances and engaging, interactive experiences all night long.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – NON-PROFIT
Haley Matthews-Jones - Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation
2016 Heartbeat Gala
The 2016 Heartbeat Gala was a night of innovation and discovery. From the carefully curated menu highlighting breakthroughs in the culinary arts to an unforgettable keynote speech by NASA astronauts and identical twins Captains Scott and Mark Kelly, the event pushed the boundaries of the imagination and challenged guests to reach for the stars.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – PUBLIC
Char Mason & Cookie Coleman - Coleman Mason Events
Jill Blihovde - Showcore
Hormel Foods 125th Anniversary Celebration
Over 20,000 people attended Hormel Foods 125th Anniversary Celebration and Grand Opening of the new and improved SPAM Museum. The public street festival featured the Hormel crafts & games, three stages, food trucks, activities for all ages and performances by Kat Perkins and headliners The Band Perry. The day ended with dazzling fireworks.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – SOCIAL
Kalie Cole - BeEvent Design
Feeling Minnesotan
When corporate sponsors for a major sporting event descended upon the Twin Cities for a FAM trip, they were treated to an evening reception which whisked them on an interactive journey and twisted expectations on the concept of “Feeling Minnesotan.”
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – WEDDING UNDER $50,000
Faith Folayan - This Love Weddings
Enchanted Park Wedding
Hannah + Scott brought family from across the country to celebrate their love here in the Twin Cities. Guests entered into their enchanted park and set out to make their 150 guest wedding celebration an intimate one.
________________________________________
BEST EVENT PLANNING – WEDDING OVER $50,000
Elizabeth Partyka - Avant Decor
Sara Trotter - Lasting Impressions Weddings
Katiee Wandmacher - Après Party & Tent Rental
A Landmark Wedding
A lavish wedding celebration was held for a couple with true Minnesota pedigree—the bride was a former Miss Minnesota, and the groom was a member of the Minnesota Vikings! Each venue the couple selected for their event mirrored the beauty of St. Paul’s architecture and history.
________________________________________
BEST ILEA TEAM EFFORT
Ryan Hanson, CSEP - BeEvents Design
Laurie McVean - Lauren B Photography
Kathy Mrozek - Windmill Design
Molly O'Hearn - EideCom
Jessica Ruth - Children's Cancer Research Fund
Dawn of a Dream
In November 2016 over 800 guests gathered for an exhilarating night of fun with a critical mission; raise funds to cure childhood cancer. The mission was kept well-alive by raising nearly $1.2 million dollars. Guests were inspired by our “Limitless” theme throughout the evening; in hopes that every child’s future is limitless upon finding a cure.
________________________________________
ILEA VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Mark Miller - AVEX
This year's volunteer of the year is a person that, while newer to our ILEA community, has made themselves indispensable. A true event professional, this person has simultaneously managed to win the hearts of ILEA members with his savvy networking skills, all while helping to produce our monthly events both fundamentally and logistically. He embodies the spirit of our community with kind words, bold ideas and hard work. Congratulations to ILEA MSP volunteer of the year, Mark Miller of AVEX!
________________________________________
ILEA PARTNER OF THE YEAR
Jeannine Pohl - Jeannine Marie Photography
If there was a box entitled 'grand slam', this year's ILEA MSP Partner of the Year would check that box and then some. For years, this organization has gone the extra mile to capture the ins and outs of our busy chapter -- both the activities and the individuals. This partner has documented our history, focused on our ILEA family and made it possible to share our happenings with our global community. She is an industry leader, a team player through and through and an incredible photographer. Congratulations to ILEA MSP partner of the year, Jeannine Pohl of Jeannine Marie Photography!
