Season Greetings!

Here at AZA, we are always looking for fun, new ideas to share with clients, guests, and friends of ours. This season we came across an exciting new company here in the Valley.

The Lollicake Company is fabulous. Lollicakes are delicious handmade cakes atop a lollipop stick coated with a crunchy chocolate shell. These tasty bite-sized desserts allow you the flexibility to try different flavors without the guilt of taking more than one dessert. Why commit to an entire cupcake when you can have a Lollicake!

Great for one of the many Holiday Parties you'll be attending or better yet, bring them along to a New Years Eve shindig. They are easy to eat, store, and enjoy :)

Best Wishes from the team at AZA Events!

"Discover the Power"

Every year we work closely with another part of the Honeywell as we plan the Honeywell Building Solutions Symposium. The goal of this annual symposium is to continue to educate and train members through an informative and innovative four day event. AZA Events always looks forward to developing and delivering a unique and successful event each year. Throughout the program we assist in décor, entertainment, transportation, and activities. We strive to create a different experience every year, as many of them are repeat attendees.

This year the Symposium was hosted at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale at Gainey Ranch and the theme was “Discover the Power”. The Welcome Reception was held at Palm Grove which is a gorgeous, green lawn on the water with large Palm Trees lining the perimeter. We used Southwest Kokopellis and stage props to transform the evening into a Native look. We also complimented the tables with sandstone centerpieces filled with bright florals and cactus. The background entertainment was complete with a Native Grammy nominated trio. Halfway through dinner a World Champion Hoop Dancer performed and involved the audience in a friendship dance.

We always look forward to the final night gala because of the phenomenal entertainment and beautiful table treatments. We dazzled the Hyatt’s turquoise linen with a sparkling Silver Organza runner. The tables were had alternating centerpieces; with a glowing bowl of orchids and a tall glass vase complete with bear grass flowing out the top. This year we selected “The Water Coolers” as the headline entertainment, who were Ensemble Entertainers of the Year in 2009. We worked closely with the group to customize a portion of the performance to touch on the audience’s industry. The singing comedy troupe had a fantastic performance and received a standing ovation.

Where Magic Meets Magnificent

As we approach the second half of the year, AZA Events is pleased to announce our accomplishments we have thus far. We are pleased to share with you the many successful events and programs, especially the past Honeywell 2009 Users Group Conference in June. Honeywell Process Solutions meet yearly, bringing roughly a 1,000 people together for their Annual Conference. This year, the events took place at the gorgeous, luxury property – the JW Marriott Desert Ridge and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona.

The program kicked off with a subtle evening poolside at the Marriott, filled with beach serenity, soft colors, all reflecting a Newport Beach Style themed evening. Freestanding Lifeguard Stands, Full-Sized Surfboards, and actual Lifeguard Stands were positioned throughout the event space creating ambiance and character. Tables were adorned with Royal, Light, and Ocean Blues accented with shell and sand hurricane centerpieces. This was just the right way to welcome the guests to their guests to a great week filled with fun!

On Tuesday of the program, the guests entered their own Wizarding World of Honeywell. We transformed the resort pool into a mystifying encounter with the magical life of Harry Potter and the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As the “muggles” entered the event, they were welcomed by Platform 9 ¾ Station and the Hogwarts Train. With the sounds of train whistles in the background, the guests traveled into the village of fun! Greeted by Harry Potter and Dumbledore Look-a-Likes they were each given a custom-made Marauder’s Map. Throughout the space, loads of entertainment was arranged such as Magic Lesson Stations, a Make-Your-Own-Wizard-Hat-and-Cape Station with talking Sorting Hat, HP Themed Interactive and Video Games, Green Screen Photography, Potion Bars, Caricaturists, Face Painters, and Magicians. This fantasy land of Harry Potter came to life right before their very eyes with broomsticks and enlarged spiders hung from existing palms, elongated tables decorated with wizard hats and HP decor, custom tree creations, traveling vignettes, and themed facades. This Wizarding World of Honeywell was created from the ground up and truly came to life with the mystical characters, eye-catching décor, and an evening full of fun for everyone!

We are not over quite yet! The program continued into the Thursday’s Final Night Gala event which took place on property in the newly finished Grand Saguaro Ballroom. Tables were adorned with Gold Pintuck Linens, paired with alternating white and black china sets per table, and accompanied with Merlot Lamour Napkins. The centerpiece designs were hand-crafted with numerous white vases, assorted florals, black Zen-inspired pieces, and assorted white and black rock. The Dinner Entertainment kicked off with the titled performance, “A Tribute to Billy Joel and Elton John” performed by Philip Myers Band. “Our Song” by Elton John launched the show, entertaining guests throughout the course of their plated dinner. Vignettes of both Billy and Elton vamped the crowd, rounding out the evening with a combined performance and Dueling Pianos set. The guests were dancing singing, dancing and congaing throughout the ballroom. Lynard Skynard’s old favorite “Sweet Home Alabama” began playing and guests had no idea what was in store next. Midway through the song, the curtains flanking the side of the room dropped and our After Hours Club 6-piece Band combined with the tune, rounding out the rest of the song. Guests then transitioned into the After Hours Club, set with vibrant and electric colored lighting, bouncing off all sections of the walls and combined with stage up lit décor. White lounge furniture sections, retro circular designs, and lava lamps dressed the room for a party to last all night.

The Honeywell program gives AZA Events the chance to create memorable, awe-inspiring events that will be remembered for years to come. We could not have done this without the dedication of our team, valuable partners, and purveyors.

"AZA did an amazing job again for us this year. Our customers and their families were mesmerized by our Harry Potter theme night and the audience members were on their seats, dancing and singing away to the Billy Joel/Elton John Tribute. We rely on AZA to make the events special and memorable and they never let us down"

-Honeywell Process Solutions, Director of Events

Sacred Serenity in Sedona

The month of May ended with a BANG as we completed another successful and spectacular program. One of Canada’s leading communication companies held an incentive retreat for their top sales managers along with company sponsors in the majestic red rocks of Sedona. They hosted their stay at the stunning and secluded Enchantment Resort, nested in the sacred Boynton Canyon.

Upon arrival to the resort, guests were escorted to the check-in area where we had a Cowboy Gift Market set up. Guests were personally fitted with a hat and their choice of boots. Western décor, music, and passed wine completed the experience and welcomed them to our unique destination.

Later that evening, we transformed the same check-in ballroom into an upscale Native American themed evening to pay tribute to the ancient cultures and tribes still live in our state today. Guests were welcomed and blessed by a Native greeter, dressed in authentic regalia, handing out corn bead necklaces. The room was adorned with Native décor and guests mingled while observing the three Native American artisans; including a Kachina Doll Carver, Rug Weaver, and Sand Painter. A Southwestern trio played while guests enjoyed their meals. Before the evening came to an end, we brought out a World Champion Native Hoop Dancer who mesmerized the crowd with his outstanding talent and Native dances. The evening was an impressive beginning and set the tone for the rest of their stay.

Day two was also a fun filled day. Each guest pre-registered for their choice of excursions including: Ancient Ruins Helicopter Tour, Hot Air Balloon Ride, Mountain Biking, Golf, Spa, or Jeep Tour. The tours all ran seamlessly and the guests returned with rave reviews.
That evening gave the group an opportunity to dress in the western wear and travel off-property to nearby ranch situated on a small lake. Al fresco lighting draped over the picnic-style seating and dance floor. Cowboy games included a Bungee Bull and Calf Roping. One of our favorite 5-piece bands, along with a line dancing couple, kept the group dancing and singing throughout the night. This evening’s surprise was an entertaining, Award-Winning Trick Rope performance.

The third day was a day of leisure. We organized a shopping shuttle throughout the day so guests were able to leave the property and shop the local galleries. That evening guests enjoyed a cocktail reception surrounded by the grand Red Rocks then were off to dinner; the Great Restaurant Dine Around. We reserved reservations at 5 of the best restaurants in town. Each group had an amazing and unique dining experience and fancied the local fare.

Their last day consisted of a morning meeting, spouse excursions, and their final Awards Evening. Spouses had the choice of participating in a cooking class or a Vortex hike at Bell Rock. That evening was the Celestial Evening and Awards Gala. A cocktail reception on the patio was the perfect beginning to this magical evening. Guests arrived to passed wine and the warm kiva fireplace as dusk took on the night. The towering Red Canyon walls surround the property and were the finest backdrop. The glass patio doors opened and welcomed the party to the chic awards setting, complete with an acoustic guitar duo. The tables were adorned in violet pintuck linens with complimenting platinum lamour napkins, ice chiavari chairs, and a silver beaded charger. Orchids encased a glowing candle in the middle of the bubble bowl centerpieces. Intelligent lighting, white leather lounge furniture and the glowing backdrop of the stage truly came together in creating a delightful evening. The President announced the award winners and the night moved on. After the closing presentation, our favorite 6-piece variety band took the stage and beckoned the guests to the white dance floor with custom vinyl logo. In the foyer, guests could meet with one of the 6 psychics or one of the 2 Aura Photographers present. They may also choose to enjoy the fresh air on the patio and stargaze from our knowledgeable Astronomer and oversized Telescope. Between the earth and sky, this Celestial Evening was a truly memorable occasion.

To see additional pictures, please contact us and we would be more than happy to share.

“Dear April, You are amazing! I know how challenging this
program was & how hard you worked to make this such an amazing trip. Thanks so much for putting your heart & soul into this program!”
- Account Executive

Experiencing the Special Treatment!

Twilight Ladies Network

Of all places in the universe, there was no better place to host The Twilight Ladies Network Golf Invitational than the golf heaven on earth: Phoenix, Arizona. One of the top golf destinations within the industry, Arizona boasts over 220 golf courses statewide. The Twilight Ladies Network is an elite organization comprised of over 200 meeting planners located in the Toronto Metropolitan area of which that have a strong influence and love for the game of golf. This year’s event took place here in Scottsdale and Sedona and AZA Events had the distinct pleasure of hosting their annual tournament along with several luxury resorts for the 29 ladies. The four day event started on Friday at the Fairmont Scottsdale Resort. They truly kicked off the event with a lovely reception which then followed by AZA greeting them at Princess Plaza with a tray of mini sparkling bottles of champagne to escort them onto their transfer to their extraordinary sancturay on Camelback Inn Resort. The Sanctuary hosted for us for a tantalizing dining experience by their Award Winning Iron Chef, Bo.

On Saturday, there was no time for any beauty sleep as the ladies hit the greens early at the TPC golf course, home to the FBR Open, a PGA tournament. After a fun day of bantering on the golf course, it was time to pack their bags to head to the historical and Frank Lloyd Wright influenced resort, The Arizona Biltmore. The resort had the ladies stay in their new private luxury collection of guest rooms that included their own private concierge. Later that evening, the Executive Chef created a unique one-of-a-kind speed dating dining event. There were four chef stations that enable the guests to eat small portioned entrees, converse with the chef, and then move onto the next station. Afterwards, all the ladies congregated outside for a night cap outside the fire pit. There was a lot of entertaining activity going on but mums the word.

Once again, sleeping was not an option. If the girls where tired they didn’t show it as they were ready, willing and able for the biggest golf tournament. AZA and The Golf Event Company hosted these lovely ladies at the Grayhawk Golf course, one of Scottsdale premier courses in the valley. They weren’t quit prepared for the triple digit heat conditions but nothing that a few beers and adult beverages couldn’t cure. Some of the PGA rules we are pretty certain were tossed aside but who never heard of a do-over.

Later that evening, AZA took the ladies on a once in a lifetime adventure. The ladies loaded Hummers and were then escorted into the desert canyons of the Four Peaks where a blank desert canvas had been turned into a chic desert affair. We brought all of the elements you would find in an on-property gala event and dropped it in the middle of the Sonoran Desert; complete with carpet, stunning table treatments, and entertainment. In lieu of a psychic we introduced a lipstick reader who analyzes your past, present and future through the lines in your lips.

Eye for Detail

This past May we had the pleasure of partnering with one of the leading Health Insurance Companies, hosting 100 incentive winners and guests at the new Intercontinental Montelucia Resort and Spa. Their Four (4) day program consisted of a Moroccan Inspired Welcome Reception, Charity Event, ½ Day Arizona Excursions, Dine Around at Arizona’s award winning destinations, and an Award Dinner unlike any other. Here are some of the highlights to the fabulous program:

Welcome Reception and Dinner –
A Moroccan Love Affair

Guests strolled down a path lined with wrought iron candles amongst beautiful greenery. As they reached the corner hundreds of floating Moroccan Glass Lanterns hung over tables draped in hand beaded silk linens in moss, teal, and blackberry. Tables were set with Gold Leaf Chargers, matching Napkins and Beaded Rings. Centerpieces with bright and festive purples and pink. The smell of authentic Paella filed the air.

Awards Reception and Dinner

– Understated Elegance

Starting at 7:00am, the transition began. Watching a blank ballroom evolve over Eight (8) hours into a room that captures every human sense, is a true pleasure for any event planner. Steel beaded curtains draped amongst Champagne Velvet Drape took you away from the ballroom and into a VIP private “Club.” As you look around, your lost in intelligent lighting that moves and brings this whole room together. The center of attention and detail was certainly the immaculate tables. Designed with a beautiful Brown linen with Smoked Glass charger, complimenting napkin with Brushed Nickle Ring, Silver Rimmed glassware, and Silver Fanfare Chair…a must! At the heart of this was an intricate centerpiece consisting of Nine (9) various shaped candle vessels brushed with metallic paint, Five (5) stainless steel spheres, moss, and indigenous succulents.

As if that wasn’t enough, once the awards concluded, a hidden door appeared and the music started. Guests quickly moved to an after hours party complimented in color, and design. A eye catcher was certainly the zebra link seating arrangement in the center of the room.

National Rifle Association

The month of May has already come and gone, and we have so many fantastic events to share with you.

As many of you Arizonians probably know, The National Rifle Association had their annual meeting here in our warm, desert oasis. They held their events downtown at the newly designed Phoenix Convention Center. AZA was their support team as we assisted in planning and coordinating all of their guest activities, ILA Dinner, Golden Freedom Reception, their Banquet Dinner décor, and After Hours Cigar & Brandy Reception. We also assisted with the décor for the National Rifle Foundation meetings.

The National Rifle Association is a prestigious organization with millions of members and tens of thousands of attendees. This large Association has many different facets and planning teams. AZA worked very closely with the planners and security team to make each event a great success and an event to remember. We assisted in creating an online registration form for activity signup as well as a registration form that was sent to thousands of members. When the activities came to fruition, members participated in an unforgettable Hummer tour of our unique Sonoran desert.

The Golden Ring of Freedom Reception and ILA Dinner and Auction were held at the authentic Corona Ranch located in Laveen, Arizona. As the DMC partner of NRA, AZA Events transformed the Great Hall into a beautiful sea of Arizona jewel tones, lighted greenery, and floral arrangements to express an elegant feel. The donor recognition party was well attended and leaded into the ILA Dinner and Auction. Sufficient tenting was brought in to house over 800 guests and AZA supplied transportation for all attendees. A truly magnificent and beautiful event took place all within one of our most favorite and genuine settings in the Valley.

Later in the week, the Banquet dinner was set for 6,000 guests at the Phoenix Convention Center. AZA provided the 600 Southwest Centerpieces for this event and was able to find beautiful, custom Native arrangements that met their budgetary parameters. The room was a spectacular sight!

Afterwards, a private Cigar and Brandy Reception was provided for the VIP’s and invited attendees. This event was an absolute HIT and was the talk of the convention. We completely transformed the Convention Center’s patio into a rugged, yet elegant after hours lounge. Brown Leather Nail-head Lounge Groupings, Rustic Double Bar, and Glowing Candle Vessels surrounded the area while guests were entertained with a Jazz Trio. Guests were stargazing from the oversized telescope and high-end cigars were scattered amongst the party. The event was enclosed with a custom, very unique black spandex and truss treatment to give a VIP feel and also acted as a wonderful security feature. This reception definitely rocked!

Overall, the Convention was a HUGE success and we are so delighted to have been apart of it.

“You folks are first class all the way, and I can’t wait to work with you again!!

You made my job (and Kristin’s) so easy, and I don’t ever remember a time that I felt such confidence in a partner that I didn’t worry about a thing -- ever! As I’ve said before, “I wish I could clone you.”

The After Banquet Party is still being talked about, and there is no doubt that it will fast become THE place to go following the Banquet. Last year was our first, and I didn’t think we could top it, but we did. Your instincts were right on target with the layout, and it was a smashing success! But most importantly, the brains guy behind this event was very happy J You made me look so good. Thank you, thank you.”
- Jacqueline Mongold, NRA


“I hope this message finds you doing very well. I absolutely cant thank you enough for the wonderful gift that you sent to me, it was very thoughtful and MUCH appreciated – it goes great with my bag! Thanks so much. Brianna and April, you have just been the best to work with and I hate to say this, but you have spoiled us/me tremendously – Jackie and I just mentioned that yesterday. So again, thank you very much for making our events so successful, we couldn’t have done it without your help, attention to detail, and immaculate planning.”

- Kristin Stoner, Advancement Events Manager for NRA

Chihuly: The Nature of Glass

The Phoenix Metropolitan area has had the amazing opportunity to be home to the Chihuly Exhibit at the Desert Botanical Gardens for the past 5 months. Throughout this time, many locals and inbound tourists have experienced this fantastic exhibition by renowned artist, Dale Chihuly. Chihuly: The Nature of Glass features new and unique works of glass artfully located throughout the Garden. Dale Chihuly is known for his innovative glass sculptures, and his work is immediately recognizable for its grand scale and vibrant colors.

“Chihuly's spectacular creations are found in more than 200 museums worldwide including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, London's Victoria and Albert Museum and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Garden exhibitions of his work have been mounted at the New York Botanical Garden, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Missouri Botanical Garden, Phipps Conservatory and the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew. This is Chihuly's first exhibition in an outdoor desert environment.”

In recent months, AZA Events operated a corporate teambuilding function on site at the Desert Botanical Gardens while incorporating the exhibit. Unfortunately the clouds were out this afternoon, but one guest still stated, “The garden is fabulous! It sure was a privilege to see all the great features, especially while this breathtaking exhibit it going on!”

We urge you to not miss it while it lasts! It is a one in a lifetime exhibit to experience. The exhibit will only be taking place until May 31, 2009. Tours are available daily and limited to availability. If interested in bringing a corporate group to the Gardens, please contact AZA Events.

“The artist permits and encourages photography of the artwork in this exhibition for educational and non-commercial use only.”

Welcome to the AZA Events Blog

Welcome! Throughout the past couple of months, AZA Events has dedicated some time to redefining our image through publishing our Winter 2008 Newsletter and the revamping of our website... launched in 2009.

Please feel free to check out our website at http://www.azaevents.com/ which includes even more photos, information, and all that you may need to know about AZA Events.

Thank you and we look forward to making your next event an unforgettable experience!