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Party Promoting: Networking

Tuesday - Sep 29, 2009 13:35

Staying Social: Technology Hasn't Changed the Promoter's Key Weapon

There can be little dispute that it's a technical age. We compute, calculate, call, and connect with myriad devices, tapping into vast worldwide networks with the push of a button and the click of a mouse. Gadgets and softwares grow and evolve at break-neck speed, and those on the edge play a fierce game of leapfrog in an effort to keep current with the latest trends and tools. Much in life has changed as a result of these breakthroughs and society's reliance upon them. In the majority of areas, these changes are positive; people are able to communicate more easily, transport and transactions can take place swiftly and with a minimum of expense, and entertainment is never too far away, in one form or another. But the modern prevalence of technology has its downsides, as well. For promoters and people working to grow a career in public relations, the potential for damage can be especially great. What, exactly, is the menace? It's pervasive. It's sneaky. And it's all a figment of your imagination. The idea that online social interactions are adequate for pr and promoter work is a misconception capable of wrecking a business, and keeping it firmly in the stone age.

be an all-knowing promoter

It may seem a bit backwards at first. Social media online is a hot venue, and it seems that every field is recommending more, bigger, and better ways to make use of this medium. And it's not completely devoid of merit; launching a competent campaign via MySpace, Facebook, or any other social media destination can be beneficial to keeping up attendance at a gig or getting people aware of some event or other. Such sites are further useful for their ability to act as a kind of digital business card, where people can connect and get nice, bite-sized pieces of information. But the utility tends to stop here. Promoters may tirelessly seek out new contacts on social media sites, or put time and money into a project in the hope that it'll go viral, but the very popularity of the medium means the market is quite saturated. Reaching an audience of several thousands or even tens of thousands with a vague impression can be less powerful -- and less profitable -- than meaningfully connecting with hundreds. As online surfers are inundated with ads, events, friend requests, and outgoing links, it can be well nigh on impossible to convey your message and have it received as intended.

Importantly, this doesn't mean that social media sites and methods should be abandoned. On the contrary, they can be excellent parts of an overall game plan. As long as they remain parts. The concept of the promoter is built upon the idea of an outgoing, engaging, and knowledgeable person, one who has a large and loyal Rolodex. While sending an email or leaving a comment may carry the benefit of being done in one's undies, there's simply no replacement for making real-time, live connections with people. Forming incidental relationships with people one runs into is one of the key skills of a successful promoter, and can lead to truly endless opportunities for partnerships and growths in business.

We advise to use the SMS and email tools that BTV offers in a more personal way. Don't send blanket emails and annoying texts - it will ultimately do you harm, not good. Building a dialogue with your current clients and friends will mean that they will actively seek your correspondence. They will think of you when planning a night out and ultimately your client list will grow. Keep it real.

London Clubs: Day to day

Tuesday - Sep 1, 2009 11:53

Delightful in the Daytime

     There's little dispute that the intrigue and ambience of the night is perfect for throwing on some glitz and glitter and heading out into the dark in search of entertainment and excitement. Yet not all fun memories are made when the sun's gone down; the end of the workday brings with it plenty of cause to celebrate, and a relaxing afternoon can pave the way toward a vastly more enjoyable evening. Catching on to the trend, many of London's hot spots are offering daytime events and parties to spruce up the sunlight.

     Babble, a prestigious yet accessible joint easily found in Mayfair, has been pleasing the crowds with its interesting yet always-quality bites and tasteful drinks list since its inception. With plenty of space for mingling, the bar features comfortable surroundings that uplift the spirit and stimulate relaxation without being stuffy or over-the-top. An inspired cocktails menu lets the workday sink away to the colorful and lip-smacking depths, while delectable snacks help hold guests over 'till dinnertime. Babble features engaging, groovy music and plays host to lighthearted dancers every afternoon. For a refreshing and rejuvenating bit of social and sensory therapy, Babble is Mayfair's place to be before the sun goes down.

     London's Metropolitan Hotel gets continuous raves for its classic style and professionalism, especially when it comes to the venue's late-night parties and special events. Yet this old standby location is home to a daytime event that's equally enthralling, and probably a bit better for the health, to boot. The hotel's quickly-growing afternoon tea parties are becoming nearly as popular as the nighttime romps, and offer patrons a touch of sophistication and style to carry the spirit and the senses through the rest of the day. The decor is welcoming and full of flair, from the deep leather booths and bar stools to the smart engraved metal menus. Tea arrives in style with a full silver tea service, and accompaniments are served in a single course to let patrons enjoy their time without too many interruptions. metropolitan club

A hit with the trendy crowd, the menu features calorie and carbohydrate-conscious selections that sate the appetite yet don't bog down the stomach with too much richness or kill productivity with a sugar comedown. Classic treats updated for modern diners stand up well to a nice selection of teas hot and cold, along with plenty of martini options.

There's no rule which dictates when a party will perform its best, and though tradition waits for the night to fall before the fun can be had, there's no reason one can't defy the rule and start the evening off right with a daytime date or fun repast. Whether after a hard day at work or simply as an end to a shopping trip, these daytime parties ensure that one doesn't have to be a night owl to enjoy London social life.

London Clubs: Barts Enters the Scene

Thursday - Jun 25, 2009 15:29

Something New in South Kensington: Barts Makes a Distinctive Splash

The hot spots on Sloane Avenue just off the South Kensington tube are known for their upscale feel and often sweat-inducing prices. A district frequented by locals, hipsters, and the intellectual crowd, the area seems to shun anything which might come off as uncouth. Yet this discipline has led to what is possibly a death of creativity and honest consideration among local bars and clubs. Boldly breaking with this downward tradition, a new club has come onto the South Kensington scene, and is threatening to make things fun again. Barts, at the Chelsea Cloisters Hotel, is bringing imagination and individuality back to concept of the posh pub, and is quickly gaining acclaim for its injection of spirit to a scene where spirits have stayed stubbornly in martini glass and highball for a while.

The venue, while somewhat difficult to navigate, is worth the initial bit of hassle. Patrons can inquire with reception at the picture-perfect hotel, and will find themselves wandering past the lobby restrooms toward an unassuming doorway. But if the entrance is unremarkable, the transition from hotel to club is as if conducted via teleportation. Bedecked in cluttered yet tasteful nostalgia, the space is considerably small (leave the bar mitzvahs and family reunions for another joint) yet takes advantage of the size with a decidedly cozy feel. Comfortable furnishings are accented by low and unobtrusive, but certainly adequate lighting. An environment wonderfully conducive to conversation, Barts is laden with curious items from paintings to collectibles and just about everything imaginable in between.

The bright and stand-out graffiti bar has a considerable amount of magic going on, and the pouring, shaking, and garnishing happening inside seem as if touched by an expert with a bit of an edge. Fans of variety need not worry about the venue's drink list. An ample and impressive selection of liquors, including over a dozen vodkas, make having a favorite -- or something entirely new -- a reasonably guaranteed event. Several varieties of cocktails are available, ranging from the classic to the truly inventive. From concoctions of gin, Cointreau, lemon juice, and gomme syrup to peach liquor lap dancing with Chambord and Grand Mariner, any taste no matter how esoteric will be hard-pressed to go home disappointed. An array of wel-chosen champagnes remain a standby, and a respectable wine list rounds out the spot's more than adequate drinks menu. With prices for cocktails topping out at £7.95 and wines ranging from £ 12 to £ 50, Barts remains quite reasonable despite the swank of its local environs.

The service, while perhaps a bit over-enthusiastic at times, is nevertheless charming thanks to its warmth and speed. Guests can rely on quick, knowledgeable, and competent staff, who are equally good with getting orders right and ready in a snap as they are with keeping control over the size of the crowd. Barts is worth a try for anyone with an interest; whether the exec with a hankering for an afternoon sip, a socialite out on the town, or a local club owner who's lost touch with how to please the people.

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