Big Blue Spark

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Metro Theater Company had to quickly pivot its planning from an in person gala to a fully virtual event. We are so grateful that the team at Big Blue Spark were our partners to help us understand our options and make our first-ever virtual event such a success. Their expertise, creative thinking, and close attention to our budget made After Dark not only a fundraising success, but also a wonderful celebration of community, bringing friends and supporters of MTC together virtually in ways we could have never previously imagined. - Metro Theater Company

‘Tis the season to start planning for those winter events. What are you most excited about as in-person events are becoming more normal again?

We are grateful to have had the opportunity to partner with Big Blue Spark. They brought a sophisticated aesthetic and masterfully worked within our budget parameters. Cool and calm under pressure, even as our circumstances changed in the days leading up to the event, Kris and Kevin became a part of our team and allowed us to respond with ease to the unforeseen. -St. Louis University High Oftentimes we get asked why we do what we do. What fuels us to do this. Well, here’s a major part of our answer.

It’s the little things that make our hearts go (!!!) From the tiniest vases of flowers to neon signs, we love bringing these small bits of joy to our guests.

It’s all about the details. Who else is obsessed with all of the textures, tones, and aesthetics of fall?

Thank you City Block STL for having us on your latest webcast of Candid Conversations!

Happy New Year everyone! We’d like to thank all of our past clients & partners for their work with us & hope to see more in-person events in 2021.

2021 is only two days away so we asked Kris & Kevin their New Year's resolutions for 2021! Kris: I was going to make a joke about putting on real pants or something, but I’m going to make a real one: Be more active. Yes, physically of course, but more so in my life. Make more memories with my kiddos, get to know my friends again after being apart so long, be more active on the Boards I sit on, and learn to take time for myself without feeling guilty about it! Kevin: I don’t have any New Year’s resolutions let’s be real, once February hits, we’re kind of over it. I do have a bunch of smaller ongoing goals that lead to bigger goals, so I guess that’ll be all of 2021. So...as the Zillennials are saying these days, send it!

On set shooting segments with our pal, @mike_colombo ! - #virtualevents #eventproducer #videography #eventplanning #stlouis

When you’re ready to fire up your next in-person or virtual event, partner with Big Blue Spark! Want to inspire? Fundraise? Engage? Celebrate? Educate? Let’s talk. We’re just the spark you need to make your next event memorable, impactful and truly special. bigbluespark.com/contact

Merry Christmas! We bought ourselves a stunning new mural in our office for Christmas! What’s your favorite gift this year? Special thanks to St. Louis Signs & Mural LLC

Even your online events need assistance with technical production! Audio, lights, set design, staging - you name it, we got you covered!

Happy Holidays from the Big Blue Spark family to yours! Stay safe, stay warm, & enjoy time with family and friends.

What new event fads will 2021 bring with it? Will zoom become more prominent? Will max attendance numbers be limited? What do you think? Let us know below!

We sat down with Zach Ruben of Prime Social Group, one of the leading independent concert promoters in the country, to chat about the live entertainment industry. Check out episode 3 of this week’s BS’ing with BBS video!

We may look all buttoned up on screen, but here’s some of the chaos behind the scenes!

Happy Friday, friends! We’ve had a blast helping our clients host virtual events this year. As you start planning your upcoming events, here are a few important considerations: Understand the goal of your virtual events Promote your virtual events Incentivize event attendance Be prepared for tech issues... Promote the event during the event Get feedback from attendees We know that planning virtual events can feel exhausting, but we’re here for you. Let us know how we can help!

What’s one of our favorite parts of virtual events? Set designing, of course! Making virtual sets come to life during these times has been so amazing to see.

What really goes on behind the scenes of one of our shoots? Here’s a little glimpse! We are so thankful for our team and friends at Care & Counseling for working with us during these strange times. Safety is our first priority and we’re so thankful to have been able to achieve this.

One important civic duty this holiday season is supporting local. This year more than ever has been challenging for small businesses in the St. Louis area. To get started, we asked Kevin & Kris about their favorite restaurants that you can help support this holiday season! Kevin: My go-to local spots are OB Clark’s, Mai Lee, and Seoul Taco. Kris: Cannoli’s (my family’s restaurant), Mission Taco, and Winslow’s Table their Brisket sandwich is pure bliss : Seoul Taco by Feast Magazine - Midwest

Hire us for comprehensive planning for your next virtual event. Here’s what we can offer you: graphic design planning coordination of rentals creation of set design... For more information, visit bigbluespark.com/events See more

Tis the season to be baking - especially in quarantine. So we had to know, what is Kris & Kevin’s favorite holiday sweet? Kris: My dad’s pecan pie. He makes it from scratch and I dare say it’s the best holiday dessert on the planet, and I don’t even like pie that much! Kevin: Chocolate chip cookies. I’m basic.

We’re getting excited for our BSing with Big Blue Spark event in 2 weeks. Stay tuned for more details!

Almost Home is so close to reaching their goal. Almost Home empowers young moms to become self-sufficient and create a better future for themselves and their children. Almost Home exists to end the cycle of poverty two generations at a time. https://www.charidy.com/empower/theewiseone

Our friends at Almost Home will be raising funds for their incredible mission over the next 24 hours. Go check them out, and stop by their Charidy page (link below) tonight at 6pm to watch the virtual event! www.charidy.com/empower/theewiseone?

The holidays are fast approaching, so we asked founders Kris & Kevin about their favorite holiday traditions. Kris: Hands down - baking a ton of Christmas cookies with my daughter, Giada. We make a huge mess, make a bunch of memories, and of course is there anything better than a cookie right out of the oven? Kevin: Football and then a little more football.

We love our friends at Almost Home! Great organization providing an incredible service. Go check out their mission!

Sometimes it’s important to reflect. Here’s a look back at our last few months it has been such an honor to work with each and every single one of these clients!

We had a blast filming with our friends at Almost Home this week. Check out their virtual fundraiser and event Thursday, November 12, 2020. Go to almosthomestl.org for more details! #empowerstl

Oh how you’ve helped us grow! What a lovely theme for an event this was! Let us help you bring you virtual event vision to life until our favorite in-person events resume. Visit bigbluespark.com/virtual for more information.

Virtual events are the hottest trend of 2020 in the event planning industry. Big Blue Spark has adapted to the new normal to make virtual events as engaging and productive as possible. Here are some of Kris & Kevin’s virtual event tips: - Keep it short (under an hour) - Build in interactive activities for your viewers to keep them engaged - Embrace being live

We recently produced a segment for our pals at HSMO with Jon Hamm and Rene Knott. You won't want to miss it there are some excellent raffle items up for grabs a Zoom M&G with Jon Hamm might be one of those items . Visit hsmo.org/yappyhour for more details! https://www.stltoday.com//article_de174d5c-9941-5756-ab76-

How stunning is this wall of women at the Gateway to Hope fundraising event? Boy, do we miss wining & dining with all of you in person. In the meantime, browse our virtual events options bigbluespark.com/virtual

Halloween 2020 is fast approaching, so we had to ask Kris & Kevin: What are you and your kids dressing up as for Halloween? Kris: Giada is going as a PG version of Harley Quinn - bat and all. Luca is going as a police officer again. Kevin: Queen B is going to be Princess Elsa. Frozen is the gift that just keeps givingI’m dressing up as myself for Halloween, that should be scary enough, especially during 2020 times.

We had the honor of producing this fun video (DP: Jake Huber Media) for our friends at Downtown St. Louis. So many great things on the horizon for downtown. 2020 Year in Review Community video (top of the video) provided by FleishmanHillard. https://www.youtube.com/watch

Virtual Event Pro Tip: Did you know that the average watch time for a virtual event is around 20 minutes? The more you know, the more we can help shape your virtual event into the success you want it to be. Visit bigbluespark.com/virtual for more information.

It’s all about the details! We love being able to assist in making your event exactly what you envision. Check out some of the decorations from UCCC’s virtual 50th birthday party.

Care and Counseling contracted with Big Blue Spark on our annual fundraiser. With us having to transition our in-person event to virtual, we could not have done it without Kris and Kevin. They guided us through the entire transition and provided the resources to put together a fantastic event!! We appreciate you going above and beyond for us!! Contact Big Blue Spark for all your event needs, whether in-person or virtual!! Thanks again. -Christine Rutherford Thanks so much for your kind words Christine! Our goal is to make every event we help with go as smoothly as possible all while keeping you in the know.

#FB to Metro Theater Company’s AfterDark virtual gala with ExclusiveEvents & Spot Although we miss in-person events, we were glad to be able to produce this exciting event that brought smiles through the screen.

Q&A with Kevin & Kris What have you each learned since starting Big Blue Spark? Kris: That it’s amazing what you can create when your mind is all the way open. From hilarious brainstorming sessions to figuring out the best ways to work together to make some of the craziest ideas come to life. It’s a beautiful process that I didn’t fully appreciate before now. Kevin: Be authentic. Not having variation in the way we act, talk or behave. Some people will love you, some people won’t. Also, patience. I’m not a patient person (ask my wife), but I’ve learned to build brick by brick and to trust the process.

It’s #FBF and we’re highlighting University City Children's Center’s 50th Birthday Bash hosted by Rene Knott. How cute are these birthday party pictures?

Our friends at Exclusive Events, Inc. always help us take our ideas from pen and paper to life, and Craftsmen Industries, Inc. never fail to deliver on our specialty print needs!

Fall weather is upon us and before you know it we’ll be breaking out the sweaters & pumpkins. This week, we asked Kevin & Kris what their favorite outdoor fall activity was that could still happen during COVID-19. Kris: Firepit nights with the friends on our street (socially distanced, of course), it wouldn’t be fall without them! Kevin: Taco nights on my friend’s patio. It’s a good time. Beer, tacos, nice weather...what’s not to like?

We’re missing the St. Louis Blues & the The Stanley Cup big time. What an honor to host such a special event for the city of St. Louis.

Did you know our event planning services include floral design? We’ll ensure all your flowers are beautifully presented and in-theme. Visit bigbluespark.com/events for more information.

Today we remember those lost in the 9/11 attacks. Our thoughts and prayers go to all those affected.

#FBF to our virtual 2020 Sunrise Celebration event with Care & Counseling. We hope everyone enjoyed the Caribbean steel drum performance, auction, raffles and fund-a-need. Thanks to our friends Spot, Exclusive Events, Inc., Jake Huber Media, SteelDrumFlavor, Fletcher Lane, and Al Hrabosky for helping us bring this project to life.

We want to know! What’s been your favorite spot to get curbside or carryout pickup from during the pandemic? Kevin has been munching onSeoul Taco, OB Clark’s, and Mai Lee. These have been curbside staples during the pandemic. Kris can't get enough...Pointers Pizza - their pepperoni & green pepper pizza never fails! My other fav has been Mission Taco...those brisket tacos are drool worthy!

We were so excited to sport our custom masks from Snaptotes Photo Products at last week’s 2020 Sunrise Celebration! Not only are they local, BUT also for every mask sold, they donate one to someone in need. Check them out https://www.snaptotes.com

Tune in tonight at 7pm for Care and Counseling's Sunrise Celebration! Hosted by Al Hrabosky. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNnpPApCQq8&feature=youtu.be

What will Kris & Kevin be doing when 2020 calms itself down? Kris: Travel!!! First, I’m going to scoop up my family to visit my parents and give them ALL the hugs. Then we’ll take a vacation to a sunny beach to sip some refreshing cocktails and watch the world come to life again. At the end of the day, I just want to be around my friends again, without the underlying covid mania. Kevin: A concert and vacation. We had a few good trips planned this year, along with some good concerts to attend. I was really looking forward to Quinn XCII and Chelsea Cutler at Red Rocks, so hopefully that reschedules. Anyways, here’s to 2021 being less angry!

It’s no secret that we miss you! We also are missing giving out party favors at our in-person, social events. Stay safe & we’ll see you soon!

We can help coordinate delivered meals for your virtual events. We partner with organizations like Butler's Pantry and want to bring the deliciousness of in-person events to your virtual guests. Visit bigbluespark.com to learn more!

Flashback to this rustic 2019 Prom afterparty, because we miss in-person events oh so much!

Still reeling from this video shoot for our client, Care and Counseling in preparation for their upcoming virtual event, Sunrise Celebration on August 27th. For more information visit careandcounseling.org/sunrise-celebration : Jake Huber Media

#TB to a fun corporate event! Soon we’ll be able to have these kinds of glamorous events again, but until then, stay safe friends

Just because events can’t happen in person doesn’t mean they can’t happen at all. Our Technical Production services will ensure that when you event goes virtual everything runs smoothly. Get your free consultation today!

Missing in-person events and hugs from Louie. #flashbackFriday

What is it we do? Our services range from event design and theme development, rentals, staffing, decor, layouts, to printed materials. Visit bigbluespark.com/events for more information

Not only are we missing our large social gatherings, but our smaller ones as well. Here’s one of our favorite graduation events we planned! And yes...that is a treehouse #flashbackFriday

Capturing stories. Creating moments.

No BS, we're back with Episode 2 of BSing with Big Blue Spark! Linda Haley and her team from Let’s Build Hope have been busy fundraising during COVID-19 with various nonprofit organizations to build a stronger community in the midst of these challenging times. Tune in now!

Boy, do we miss producing in-person events for our clients. Especially ones like Annual Fairy Tales Can Come True Concert supporting University City Children's Center! #flashbackFriday

Did you know that sound and light are powerful tools to engage and excite your audience? Our experienced team uses the latest technology and masterful expertise for a flawless technical production and presentation! Partner with us for your next big event bigbluespark.com

It wasn’t a traditional venue, but it was great to be around friends to create some virtual event magic.

Developing an engaging story, creating visual content, and seamlessly delivering your message may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! Let us help you inspire, excite, and spark your audience with your next virtual event bigbluespark.com

Whether you’re hosting a small, private event or a lavish gala, we can help you with: Planning and management Technical production Virtual events Entertainment... We’re just the spark you need to make your next event unforgettable! Get in touch bigbluespark.com See more

With all that is happening in 2020, we forgot that our two year anniversary was a couple of weeks ago. Thank you to our friends, family, clients, and vendors that have supported us on this journey. We wouldn’t be here without the love and continuous support from you all. 2020 isn’t what we expected, but we’re looking forward to navigating today’s challenges with you. Thank you so very much. Stay well and remember...The show must go on

No two events are alikethat’s why we collaborate with you in order to understand your unique goals and challenges, and offer inspired plans to make you and your event shine! Partner with us to spark excitement at your next event bigbluespark.com

Choosing the right entertainment for your event is integral to your success. We research, negotiate and secure a range of national, regional, and local talent to ensure your event sends the message you want! Let your mission take center stage, and contact us today bigbluespark.com

Inspire, excite, and spark your audience with your next event! From start to finish, we will bring your vision to life, and our seamless process will make you and your event shine. Let us help make your next event truly special bigbluespark.com

Fire up your next event with us! We can provide all the essential resources, including: Creative event planning and management Expert technical production... Experienced entertainment buying Reach out today to get your complimentary consultation bigbluespark.com

Thanks to Jill Kozup Metherd for inviting us to Sports & Social St. Louis’ Friends & Family lunch! It felt so good to get out of the house we’d like to extend a warm welcome to Downtown’s newest venue!

Big Blue Spark joined the team motivated to make our event the best that it could possibly be, bringing their invaluable skills and expertise with them. I was able to be almost completely hands off throughout the process and had full confidence that the event would be a success. Regional Arts Commission Planning your next event? We’re just the spark you need to make it memorable and impactful bigbluespark.com

It might not have been the wedding that was originally planned, but this awesome couple didn’t let 2020 keep them down. Thanks for letting us take this journey with you. . . . .... #eventplanning #stlevents #stleventplanner #wedding #eventsin2020 See more

Missing hockey? We are too, that’s why this #flashbackFriday, we’re flashing back to last year, when we lended a hand in the production of the inaugural Show-Me Downtown event! The evening featured performances by Kennedy Holmes and Little Dylan, remarks from St. Louis Blues President Chris Zimmerman and St. Louis Blues Chairman and Governor Tom Stillman, and a surprise appearance by Stanley. Yes, the Stanley Cup. Interested in working with us on your next big event? bigbluespark.com

When you’re ready to fire up your next big event, partner with us! From digital events, to a spectacular gala or major festival, we can orchestrate your event smoothly and efficiently. Get in touch today to get started bigbluespark.com

#blackouttuesday