The Special Event, where over 4,000 event professionals come together at the industry’s largest conference and trade show in San Diego. It’s a wonderful chance to connect and collaborate with event planners, wedding planners, corporate planners, caterers, vendors, business owners and more! Events are all about experience, ambiance and uniqueness.

The Event Experience was held a the House of Hospitality in Balboa Park, where each room was transformed into a different neighborhood in San Diego. Lucky for us, we were in the best neighborhood, Hillcrest, which is known for its LGBTQ scene, gay bars, cafes, brunch spots, and massive annual Pride parade.

Designed by Jacob Thater, the Alahambra room came to life with hedge walls, beautiful florals by Three Petals, bright colors, a rainbow stage, pink plastic flamingos, unicorns and giant gummy bears. As Jacob explained the concept behind the design, he wanted to pull in aspects that remind him of Hillcrest and his favorite brunch spots like Mo’s and Gossip Grill.

Snake Oil contributed to the fun by providing a Craft Mimosa bar cart, a Bloody Mary bar cart, and the crowd favorite Hillcrest-themed Cocktail Graffiti hosted at the main bar. Have an upcoming event with us and want to add an extra activation to your beverage plan? Our bar carts are a functional and classy way to add an additional element of flair to your event.

Oxygen Bar by Airheads had their station next to the bar, in case a guest was more in the mood for oxygen than spirits (or both!). Other talented vendors who helped bring Jacob’s concept to life included Mobile Music Plus, Personal Touch Dining, CORT Rentals, Pacific Event Productions, and Bright Event Rentals. The stunning images in this post were taken by Justice Photography!

What really set the tone and spirit of the room was the stage, shining front and center of the Hillcrest-themed party. Upon entering the space, the lighting immediately spoke to the night life crowd, displaying fun colors and a darker ambience. Spotlight flash to the stage! Two dancers in themed costumes (Innovative Entertainment) performed continuously throughout the night, as the crowd ebbed and flowed through the space.

The Hillcrest room was quite the party – guests were spotted with Cocktail Graffiti in hand, laughing, and groovin’ along to the music. When the crowd size reached its pinnacle, Anita Procedure (@jonniereinhart) graced the stage with her presence, charisma, and showmanship! It’s safe to say whether you were raising your mimosa, cocktail, or bloody Mary, there were good vibes all around.