What You're Reading: Top Special Events Articles for May 2015

Happy Ending: Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra's 'Storybook' Gala Nets Big Revenue

With only a shoestring budget, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra's in-house event team netted $757,000—nearly 50 percent above goal—by deft management of funds and event space. The 550 dinner guests dined in six different rooms in Heinz Hall, each themed to a classic fairy tale. The Special Events Advisory Board loved this happy ending, honoring the event with a 2015 Gala Award.

Silver Celebration: Decor and More Turns 25 in Style

Decor and More--the Toronto-based decor company and multiple Special Events Gala Award winner--celebrates its 25th anniversary with a bash that also salutes the retirement of founder Leslee Bell.

MGM Magic: MGM Resorts Gives Insider Event Tour at Latest TSE 'Spin' Session

The team at MGM Resorts and MGM Resorts Events in Las Vegas treated attendees at TSE's "A Spin on Event Production" to an amazing behind-the-scenes tour of how they make event magic.

Something About Alice: Hello Florida Creates an Alice in Wonderland Event for Marriott Masters

The team from Hello Florida helps Marriott stage an unforgettable Association Masters Conference by creating a one-of-a-kind Alice in Wonderland party. The 500 guests were impressed, as was the Special Events Advisory Board--the event won a Gala Award in January!

Pretty in Pink: Legendary Events Creates a Chic 40th Birthday Party

Legendary Events creates an oh-so-chic 40th birthday party that's long on pretty pink and brilliant bling. The Special Events Advisory Board loved it, bestowing a 2015 Gala Award nomination.

Wild Thing: Alison Silcoff Events Takes the Daffodil Ball 'On the Wild Side'

Alison Silcoff Events and team take the venerable Daffodil Ball, benefiting the Canadian Cancer Society, for a walk 'On the Wild Side,' featuring a jungle theme and wild decor. The event won two 2015 Gala Awards from Special Events magazine.

Wave Goodbye to the Traditional Bride: Wedding Trends for 2015

The age of the traditional bride is all but a concept of the past. Bridal and wedding trends are constantly evolving, from the location to the table settings to the gowns to the reception, and so much more. The year 2015 has paved the way for both wedding designers and the brides who hire them to reach out of the box and explore areas and ideas that counter the norm. Goodbye to the white dress and all the preconceived notions that went along with it.

Rocking the Rooftop: Wolfgang Puck Catering Throws a Rooftop Patio Party

Wolfgang Puck Catering and Events treats clients and friends to a sneak peek at summer with a rooftop patio party featuring an upscale look at the traditional barbecue. The venue: Target Terrace, part of L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles.

Hit the Beach: Russell Harris Event Group Creates Beaches of the World

A global technology client kicked off its 2014 international sales and marketing conference by welcoming 3,500 guests from around the world to the Venetian resort in Las Vegas. Ready for something different after years of staging events at the convention center, the Russell Harris Event Group team took the client poolside for a sophisticated pool party representing beaches of the world—Middle East, South Beach, South Pacific, Latin America, Asia—where the corporate giant has divisions. The event made a big splash, winning a 2015 Gala Award from Special Events magazine.

Break the Cake: New Shapes and Flavors for Wedding Cakes

While traditional cakes appeal to many bridal couples, others are looking for cakes in new shapes and featuring new flavors, including vegetable-based cakes.