In my search for knowledge about event planning I was able to volunteer at LA’s Mindshare. This events whole purpose is to bring people from every neck of the woods together to share ideas. Its fun and genius much like the crew behind it who I got to meet and hangout with. The event was founded by Douglas Campbell, and upheld with the help of his geek squad (in this case being geeky is a good thing).
I went the day before the event to the setup to help where I could and see the whole process from beginning to end. First off the location was great! This really cool old fire house turned into a apartment loft. It is located in the factory district in downtown LA. It had a big spacious room where they could hold presentations and then a nice outer area that was separated so one side had DJ’s and the other side had food, a beer and wine bar, and an big projection screen so people could watch the presentations from outside as well.
the inside area
Entry outside area
2nd out door area
The setup for this event was just the final leg of all the setting up that had to be done. At each mindshare there are new and cool gadgets and knick knacks for people to play with. This month had a laser room challenge, a photo booth, and a pong table. All these fun activities are hand made by the mindshare squad. It was quite a bit of work to just see the physical setup of each thing let alone imagine about the time and dedication that went into making them. In addition a lot of work went into setting up all the audio and television stuff. All the mindshare folks were really excited to have everyone come play especially since once again mindshare had sold out.
The next day everything was lighted, floral arrangements placed, bars stocked, tech toys ready, presentations loaded, and then the people started to arrive. There was a check in at the door where each person would then get their name tag which has not only their name but a unique question they had to answer such as, when I was little I used to…
People of all ages (21+) and types rolled in. Doctors, web designers, artists, dancers, and just people who want to meet other interesting people. Then, the presentations begin:
Jessica Jackley / Founder, KIVA
Microloans to Change the World
Geoffrey Sommer / Aviator & Risk Analyst
Keeping Calm When The Killer Comet Cometh
Ariel Blumenthal / Composer, Founder Sentient Music for Media
Music Environment as a Design Element
Dr. Alex Benzer / Author, Tao of Dating for Women, Tao of Dating For Men
Why Do Smart People Have a Difficult Time Dating?
Jason Porath / DreamWorks Animation
A Short History of Hollywood's Genitalia Coverups
Afterwards everyone just relaxed, talked, and had a few drinks. The event was fun and stimulating for the mind. It was a great experience, everyone enjoyed themselves, and when that happens you have a successful event. I will be going back and you should too!!! So check them out at:
http://www.mindshare.la/