New logo

Skybox has gone through a lot of changes from the inception of the idea. It had started back when I was in grad school. I had no idea where I wanted to take my business, but I knew I wanted to start something that I could call my own. My original logo and concept was based upon the intention to run a catering business. Skybox has evolved so much further than that, and I felt it was time to reflect that in our branding.

Skybox logo from 2005 - 2012

When considering the change, I still wanted to keep the same color scheme and fun feel of the old Skybox logo, while also having the chance to show how we have grown and that we intend to continue to grow. I worked with Nikki from Akula Kreative to rebrand the company. As you may remember, my logo previously had items that you would see at an event with wings on a box to show that we are a company that helps make things happen. Our new logo was inspired by my hot air balloon photo shoot,  and represents that Skybox is going to keep going up and the sky is the limit.

With Skybox events, we do our best to make every moment magical, both for ourselves and for the client. I’ve seen plenty of “impossible” happen through Skybox; starting a company, growing into needing an office, writing a book, and so much more. This is why I chose the hot air balloon. Because I want to help others see all their impossible ideas become a magical realities.

Check out our new website! http://www.skyboxeventproductions.com/

30 when 30- The Ultimate Bucket List

The story of Tricia Cuano; discovered by Ngoc Nguyen Lay and written by Rachel Anderson.

You think your life is going in one direction, and then it’s not.

I know that seems normal. Everyone has probably experienced it at one point in their life, but when it happens to you it always comes as a shock.

Being 30 was not an age I was looking forward to. The changing of being a twenty-something to a solid 30 was terrifying. Yet I took comfort  in knowing that my life was smoothly going down the path I had always wanted. I was saving for a wedding, sure that my boyfriend of five years would propose by the end of the year, saving for a house, saving for my future.

But then that moment happened, as so many people’s lives do, where you realize the path has abruptly evaporated. You were sucker-punched, and now you franticly fumble about in the darkness trying to find a new path or a little light to see by.

When my boyfriend and I broke up three months before I was to turn that frightful age, all of my expectations and dreams abruptly ended. Of course it was hard, and tragic, and heart-wrenching… how could it not be? But this isn’t about that. This is about what came next.

A close friend of mine suggested I do a “30 when 30” list. It was something she had done when she turned 30, and because I’m an avid planner, it seemed like a good idea. “30 when 30” was a bucket list of sorts, a list made up of all those times when you had ever said “I’ve always wanted to do that.” And while you’re 30 years old, the goal was to complete all the things on that list. All 30 things.

Since I had been saving for a wedding, a house, and a future that included room for two, I now had funds with no distinct purpose, and time that needed to be filled. It was an easy decision to put those savings towards this new adventure.

Initially, it was about just checking off all the things that I had put on that list. There were the crazy things like trapeze flying, safari rides (at San Diego Zoo), visiting new countries, speed dating, white-water rafting, and natural wonders. But there were also the personal like getting a new haircut, volunteering, and paying it forward. For this list, nothing was off-limits.

As I started on this year-long journey I was able to celebrate New Years in Brazil, swim with dolphins in Mexico, run a marathon in Seattle, go to a U-2 concert for the first time, participate in a flash mob, ride in a hot-air balloon, and so much more.

For each of these events I went out of my way to include my family and friends because it was important for me to share these experiences with those whom I loved most, and in turn they used these adventures to do some of the things that they never thought they would do either. They became my cheerleaders, my motivatoin, and my inspiration. In turn I became their cheerleaders, their motivation, and their inspiration.

Somewhere along the way (after I had jumped whole-heartedly into planning) I realized that this had become less about crossing things off my list, and more about pushing myself to do things that I’ve never done before. It became about challenging myself and finding ways to grow as a person.

I never thought that I could run a marathon. Growing up I was never very athletic, and I didn’t think that I could ever run that much. My sister became my true inspiration for this. After she completed her first marathon, I thought “if she can do it, I can do it.”

Running was a great coping mechanism at first, because even though I didn’t think I could do it, those training sessions would require me to completely clear my mind and think of nothing. I couldn’t contemplate my problems and remember to breathe at the same time. I couldn’t allow my mind to dwell on the pain and force my legs to work simultaneously.

Then the day came for me to run the race. And I did. I ran and ran and eventually crossed the finish line. It was a huge sense of accomplishment to cross that white painted line, especially because there’s times when you don’t think you can do it. But I did.

Exactly one more month and I will be one year older. One more month and I will be 31.

I only have five more things to cross off my list, and then I’ve completed the 30 things that I have always wanted to do, when I was 30 years old. This, in a way, has been an entirely different kind of marathon. There were moments where I wanted to give up and moments where I didn’t think I could do it. Yet I have, and I will.

“30 when 30” started because my life’s path suddenly evaporated. I was lost and broken. Yet now, as I cross the finish line on this momentous year, I realize that I would take nothing back.

Going through all of this has definitely brought me more comfortable in my own skin. I think about how maybe I was uncertain about things, like what it would be like out of my old relationship, what it would be like on my own. Now I can see my faith has grown stronger, and I have learned how to take a really difficult situation and making it into a positive one.

In the past, not having a plan or anything made me uneasy, but now it has taught me to take it easy and not need to have my whole life planned out.

Secretly I’m dreading the end to this year because there has been something to look forward to every day. But I’m looking at the finish line now, and I can’t slow down. I won’t slow down. This will just allow me to start a new list where I can add things that didn’t make the original list, or new things that I’ve never considered before.

I guess there’s no choice but to look forward to this new path of random adventures, complete with my newly found strength and determination. Helen Keller once said “When one door of happiness closes, another opens; But often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.”  So I suppose there’s no need for me to look at any other door besides the one that’s before me.

Mod: Inspired by the 60’s and now of course Mad Men, Mod fashion is back. To put it simple, it’s blocks of bold colors paired together. For your event, Try pairing seat covers and table linens. If you want to make a big statement, these big pops of color will not let you down. (p.s. mixing bold red and fushia is hot this season!)

Color block with bold colors on furniture or other large items for the perfect feel.

Futuristic: Using different materials like plastics or metallic (not blingy) materials will start popping up in event trending. Be ahead of the curve by using these materials in an unexpected place. Like for example, try having hard plastic lanterns or metallic details (think New Orleans gone to space).

It’s all in the details. Metallic doesn’t mean bling. And try unusual materials!

Quirky glasses: Another 60’s inspired trend, a little funk is becoming more and more accepted as a fun addition to any event. Try giving out various glasses like these as door prizes and then watch as your guests mingle and trade.

Glasses can be used for photobooth props, theme enhancements, or fun gifts for your guests.

Faded neon: Think neon that has been left in the sun, or pastels that have been given an oomph. These could be the perfect shade for bridesmaids, gift bags, color schemes, or accent pieces.

Faded neon accents are the perfect way to celebrate spring; on a person, or in your decor.

Prints: Thank you Anya (winner of Project Runway Season 9). Since the January season finale, prints have been finding their way back into the hearts of women, and fashion designers, everywhere. So what a better trend than to incorporate into your event when spring patterns can be bold, subtle, funky, or exotic and all be perfectly appropriate. Try it on your lampshades, table covers, napkins, plates… or really anywhere.

Prints can instantly create or enhance any party theme.

But all work and no play might make Ngoc a dull girl. SO while I take a quick trip down to the mid-south to finalize these book plans, Albert and I are going to make it a trip for play too and head down to Houston and New Orleans. It’s important to have work life balance.

Work:

First up, Dallas. I’ll be dropping in to meet my publishers and proof the entire book with my designers. I can’t wait for these final steps!

Also, I just found out yesterday that Mike, from Rainbow Fish Cinema, will be flying to Dallas for a day to film my meeting with Brown Books.  He’s putting a film together about the book and we will show it at our launch party in June.

Work and Play:

Next up, Tram! I’ll be heading to Houston where I get to meet up with my Nutrition-expert and Co-author, Tram Le of Nutrition to Kitchen. It will be great to spend time with her and look over parts of the book together. We will finally be in the same place in order to tie up all the loose ends.

Play:

On to New Orleans! My hubby and I are going to go see the French Quarters, City Park, Audubon, the Garden District and so much more! But let’s be honest, we really just want to eat some of that delicious cajun cuisine. And if we happen to hear some great jazz music while we’re at it, all the better. Most importantly spending time with him will be the best part of this trip.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates of the trip.

propel workshops | photography mentoring by caroline tran

Love is in the Air // Highlight from RainbowFish on Vimeo.

This event boasted knowledgeable hand-picked vendors in an intimate and personal setting. It showcased the ultimate resources for couples including Entertainment, Table Décor, Invitations, Floral Designs, Cakes, Event Coordinators, Limo Services and much more!!! Plus, there was even a couture fashion show by Thai Nguyen Collections (in which our very own Skybox Coordinator Brandi was one of the models!).

When the guests arrived the mood was immediately set with a vintage Rolls Royce, Hollywood spotlights, and full jewel-toned decor.

The evening was full of fun as guests enjoyed tables settings, flowers, invitations, cake and more to showcase what the vendors had to offer and what dreams the couples might fulfill.

Finally, the fashion show was the evening’s encore, as vendors, planners, brides, and grooms all gathered to view the upcoming trends in bridal wear.

Love is in the Air was a  fun and entertaining evening, and Skybox would like to say a big thank you to all who attended. Also, a special thank you to Judy and Gavin, photographers for the event and whose pictures are seen above.

To view the complete photo gallery, check out our Facebook Page.

1. A Typewriter: Use an antique typewriter to have all the guests write their names in. This would be best for any event where it was more important to remember those that attended, than having a long-lasting keepsake.

(Photo courtesy of Mrs. Lovebug)

2. A Map: Obtain a map (city, state, country, world) and have guests sign where they came from to be at your event. This is best if your guests are widespread, and can sign or pinpoint lots of different areas on your map.

(Photo courtesy of tickledpink.com)

3. Wall Art: Have your guests sign something unique, that you can later hang as art. Options besides plates: tree trunks, canvas, sea shells, the list goes on!

(Photo courtesy of triedandtrueweddings.com)

4. A Quilt: Be proactive and send out a quilt sqare with your invitations and ask guests to bring it back signed. This can give you a wonderful personalized quilt to remember your special event with for years to come.

(Photo courtesy of weddingbycolor.com)

5. Wine Bottle: Ask your guests to sign thier names to a wine bottle. Not only will you be able to see who was there for thank you cards and such, but you can enjoy the wine and the decorative bottle afterwards.

(Photo courtesy of bottleyourbrand.com)

6. Fun Banners: Have guests sign notes that you can hang. Here they were inspired by “airing dirty laundry” about their hosts. But you could cut peices that fit any theme, including the classic triangle shape. As an added bonus, they are perfect for the scrapbooker to use afterwards.

(Photo courtesy of Melagerie)

7. Shutters and Postcards: Shutters would be the perfect casual atmosphere to have at your next event. You could have guests sign post cards and clothes pin them to the slots for a fun anthropoligie feel.

(Photo courtesy of eventstoatdc.com)

8. Puzzles: Puzzle pieces are fun for the guests to choice, and fun for you to put back together afterwards. Also, try laminating the finished product for a fun conversation piece and keepsake.

(Photo courtesy etsy.com)

9. Fingerprint Pictures: Use your guests fingerprints as a unique way for them to tell you they were there. This is best for events where the actual guest’s name is not as important as the memory that your friends celebrated with you.

(Photo courtesy etsy.com)

10. Your Own Creation: Find something that shouts you! Whether it fits your life or your events theme, find a unique way to have your guests say “they were here.” In this picture, a personalized game is being used now for thier guests and then later for fun.

(Photo courtesy etsy.com)

Below is a list of the delicious eateries that we had tasted:

1. Miceli’s: Established in 1949, Miceli’s is the home of the singing waiters and waitresses.  Classic Italian dining at its finest in the heart of Hollywood.

2. Loteria Grill: Open kitchen, straight to table, delicious on your pallet.  Three phrases that describe Loteria Grill Mexican cuisine perfectly.

3. Skooby’s: Freshest Hot Dog in L.A!  I don’t even like hot dogs and Skooby’s was delicious!  Don’t forget their $2 Tuesday deals.

4. Boardner’s: This historical speakeasy is a popular spot for just hangin’ with friends, parties, promotions & events, weddings & for local filming.

5. Mel’s Diner: The Mel’s drive-in of Hollywood has a fascinating and colorful history. We sipped on some sweet tasty milkshakes while people watching for the stars.

6. Chado Tea Room: The Chado Tea Room is the tea shop that has revolutionized tea drinking in the Los Angeles area.  With delicious variety along with afternoon tea time, a perfect place to hang out and end our food adventure.

Visit our Skybox Facebook page for photos of our food tour.

For more pictures of Y-Co and Efrain’s wedding day visit our website photo gallery.

Vendors: Coordinator // Skybox Event Productions, Church // St. Monica Catholic Church, Reception, Caterer & Lighting // The Ebell Los Angeles, Photography // Victor Sizemore, Videographer // Kismet Cinema, Florist // The Flower Tray, Linens // Fusion Linens, Stationery // Bzzy Bee and In Jane’s Head, Hair and Makeup // Muse Makeup Artistry, DJ // H2H, Cake // Cake Divas, Limo // Best Chauffeured Worldwide, Photobooth // Red Cheese

This generation is starting to be known as the social justice generation. This generation not only sees social injustices in their own networks (like poverty, sex trafficking, homelessness, and so many others), but they are also being compelled to make a change, and in turn every other generation is being compelled to stop and consider thier part in altering this “status quo”. So how does will this generation affect your event planning?

Here are a couple tips on how to build your attendance base through a socially aware generation:

1. Pick a charity that you like. The key to getting others to care about something is to care about it yourself. This might seem like common sense, but when picking a non-profit for your event if others see your genuine desire to help this particular need, then they will join you in your excitement and be more likely to join you at your special event.
2. Don’t charity hop. If people know that you always support a particular charity, they won’t look to send their money elsewhere. Not only will they already have a base knowledge about the cause, but they will already feel an investment in the organization/lives that they’ve given to in the past, thus being more willing to come to your events again and again.
3. Don’t charity hop. Sound familiar? On another note, people in our culture are now skeptics! There are too many scams, and ploys, and fake Ambassador who need their help! Take the skepticism out by being consistent with your organizations.
4. Try choosing an organization that fits your theme. I know, I know, I just said (twice) not to charity hop. But this may be the one exception. It makes sense to others, and hopefully to you as well, that your event would be themed around the charity (or vise versa). If you’re having a baby shower, you can also ask your guests to bring a new born blanket to donate to the local hospital or if you’re having food tasting, you could raise money for a local food bank. There are so many fun options!
5. You DON’T have to pick something popular. As long as you have good information available to your guests (links, info, brochures, websites, organization embassadors, presentations, etc) feel free to not pick a well known non-profit. Remeer, the number one way to make your event successful with this socially aware generation, is to be socially aware yourself.

If you’re passionate and want to make change, others will want to join you!