Thursday, December 16, 2010

Meet Puerto Rico! Puerto Rico Convention Bureau

Say hello to the Puerto Rico Convention Bureau (PRCB), somewhat similar to PR Dive In 101, the bureau's website shows the opportunities the caribbean island of Puerto Rico offers for local and international corporations interested in having and hosting their events and/or conventions on the island.

Once you enter their interactive website, you are mesmerized with the colorful pictures and all the options you can choose from. First, you have the "Planners" option, here you can start to plan, manage, or promote your event in Puerto Rico. Then you have the "Members" option, where you can grow your network or grow your business by joining the PRCB. Next, is the "Media" option, where you can informed on the latest news from the premier meetings and convention destinations in the Americas. And lastly, you have the "Puerto Rico" and "Convention Center" options. Here you can explore and learn all about the destination and acquire all the necessary information of the largest most technologically advanced convention center in the caribbean.

Joining forces with the PRCB would have a great outcome for both the bureau and PR Dive In 101. This partnership will encourage both local and international corporations to consider Puerto Rico as one of their firsts options when looking for a venue. This is a great way to increase the island's tourism numbers, in addition to helping with the economic revenue in the island.

Showcasing all the opportunities and all the options corporations have in order to create their corporate events and/or conventions, is only a small part of what the bureau really does. On their website costumers can plan and manage their events. Definitely, we want to create the same vibe and recognition as PRCB. This is why doing a partnership or membership with them will help get our brand and name out there, in our desired industry.

It is nice to know that others have the same interest in showcasing what our native land has to offer. Remember to consider Puerto Rico as a venue for your next corporate event or convention.

For more information visit their website. Puerto Rico Convention Bureau

Official PRCB website
References: 
http://www.meetpuertorico.com/

Friday, December 3, 2010

Start the Movement!

Difficult…but Not Impossible: Start the movement!
The development of IN Entertainment Co.

To develop a brand, a company, service or product has its obstacles but certainly it’s not impossible. This is the case of IN Entertainment Co. designed to be the first specialized event/convention company in Puerto Rico.  This is an innovative idea that has a very promising outcome. Knowing the obstacles and the economic depression the world is facing, anyone would back down on following their dreams or hold back on their plans, but fortunately with a good idea, a good business plan, and a determined group of followers, maybe NOW is the moment. This is what Kimberly Fowler, CEO & founder of Yas Fitness Centers, tell us about overcoming the obstacles when it comes to opening a new business. Her most important step is the first one, taking the "Leap of Faith" in your idea and product. Now, how can you develop your idea into a success? Easy...starting a movement!

Let’s use Derek Sirves talk, How to Start a Movement presented at Ted.com. Here with the help of surprising footage he explains how a movement begins and all the factors that must be taken into consideration in order for it to be successful. With his unusual video presentation and comedic approach he gets his point across in a very entertaining way.



Get to know Derek!
Derek Sirves is the creator of a new project called MuckWork, where he wants “to lessen the burden (and boredom) of creative people”. A professional musician since 1987, he started CD Baby by accident in 1998 when he was selling his own CD on his website, and friends asked if he could sell theirs, too. CD Baby was the largest seller of independent music on the web, with over $100M in sales for over 150,000 musician clients. In 2008, Sivers sold CD Baby to focus on his new ventures to benefit musicians, including his new company, MuckWork, where teams of efficient assistants help musicians do their "uncreative dirty work."

Applying it to your idea:
As we learned with the Derek’s speech, a movement is easy to create. Remember that a leader takes the leap of faith, but without the followers the idea crumbles.  This is a great way to approach your idea. Take more time, explore your market and make sure you brand yourself and your product, idea or service in a way people support and follow. 

In conclusion, IN Entertainment Co. here we come! Remember every path has its obstacles, how you overcome them is the real key to success.


References:
Video: How to start a movement by: Derek Sirves http://www.ted.com/talks/derek_sivers_how_to_start_a_movement.html
Sources:

Monday, November 15, 2010

Q&A with the Experts


A project in business is a collaborative enterprise, frequently involving research or design, carefully planned to achieve a particular aim. Whether your business includes selling a product or providing a service projects are everyday tasks. The event/convention production industry obviously is not the exception, and PR 101 had the opportunity to discuss very important points in the development of conventions with a talented local Puerto Rican PR firm; Eferrer Public Relations & Integrated Communications.

Eferrer is a boutique firm specializing in Public Relations and Integrated Marketing Communications, established in Puerto Rico.

“We believe success strives in being strategically creative. Offering our clients the perfect marketing mix based on a continuous process of analyzing necessities, opportunities and weaknesses of our clients, keep us on the competitive edge”
                                      -Eferrer Public Relations & Integrated Communications

PR 101 had the opportunity to have a Q&A with the company’s founder & CEO, Edaliz Ferrer. Here she gave some pointers on project (in this case Convention/Event planning) development, among other things.

PR 101: What are the main starting steps to create a convention?
Ferrer: The main points taken into consideration at the starting point in the creation of a project are the objectives, and the purpose of the project. You also have to take into consideration the audience that you want to address, the date, very important the budget, and the history; has the event been done before or is it new.

PR 101:  What are the key factors to a successful event/convention?
Ferrer: Definitely, I believe there are 5 key factors to a successful event. First would be the planning, this includes the brainstorming process and the determination of the roles within the work group. Another key factor are teamwork, and your ability of budgeting. Last but certainly not least, it’s a tie tied between time and sponsors, both equally important.

PR 101: Which are some of the common objectives for a prosperous convention?
Ferer: To be able to meet every objective established for any event is the best to determine how successful or unsuccessful the event truly was. This is why at the time of choosing the most common and most important objectives of a convention production I chose the following:
·      Earn triple of the investment
·      Be able to do the event continuously, at least once a year.

PR 101: Working on a PR firm, what is the most common request from clients that are looking for new venues to do conventions or events?
Ferrer: Every client is different. They have different needs, ideas, suggestions and requests. I can say that the most important qualities they search within new venues are the venue’s capacity, its cost and its accessibility.  

PR 101: Which are some of the common mistakes event coordinators or producers make, creating events?
Ferrer: Wow, at the time of making an event you have a great responsibility of meeting every client’s demands and request but sometimes we do have mishaps. No need to say that sometimes its trial and error what helps us get better through time. Some of the main mistakes are concentrating on the assembly, equipment, sound, and lights, and not on the content of the event. 

PR 101: What tips can you suggest for creating a one of a kind event?
Ferrer: A one-of-a kind event is not very difficult; you must have a good and creative name, an innovative idea, new opportunities to expand the market within sponsors and knowing how to target your market.

PR 101: Why is Puerto Rico is a good alternative for an event/convention?
Ferrer: Puerto Rico is a great destination either to do tourism or to create an event or convention. Considering the year round nice climate, quality service, a wide range of activities for all ages and preferences.  In addition you have the option of incorporating water sports, and top class nightlife. And remember Puerto Rico is part of the USA, which means that if you are American you don’t need a visa or passport to come and visit.  

PR 101: What venue in Puerto Rico would be a good choice to do a company convention?
Ferrer: The best one would be the Predo Roselló Convention Center.*

PR 101: What does Eferrer Public Relations & integrated Communications have to offer in the Event/ Expo/ Convention department? 
Ferrer: At Eferrer Public Relations & Integrated Communications we offer and guarantee the best production and content you can wish for.  Not only a one of a kind experience but attention to detail like no other. In addition we provide media exposition free from cost. In conclusion, we offer an unforgettable experience.

PR 101: Does Puerto Rico really does it better? Why?
Ferrer: OF COURSE! We offer great service, first-rate tourism; some of the finest hotels from 2 to 5 stars, plus affordable air fees and accommodations can be found easily.  You can have the best of worlds, Spain’s exotic history with hip modern cities and fine entertainment. Plus we speak English!
From left to right: Camila Calderon, Edaliz Ferrer, Diana Otero & Ishaa Lopez. Staff at Eferrer  Public Relations &Integrated Communications
So, consider Puerto Rico as a venue for your next event/convention. You won’t regret it. Special thanks to everybody on Eferrer Public Relations & Integrated Communications, especially Ms. Edaliz Ferrer for taking some time off her hectic schedule and sharing some of her knowledge with us. 

For more information on Eferrer PR Firm, add them on Facebook or  follow them on Twitter



Tuesday, November 2, 2010

The T Factor

The T (Team) Factor...
The importance of a Team in the creation of an event and/or convention. 

The task of making a successful event and/or convention, requires a large amount of planification, budget, brainstorming and the right team to make an exceptional activity. Like in any project or business, the people or team used to complete a certain task is the number one factor or element, to ultimately develop and complete victoriously an event.

During the process of creating an event certain steps involving your team and other areas, have to be considered.

  • Estimate the number of people who will be attending your event. 
  • List what items would be needed for the venue.
  • *Make a list of the number of people required to assist in the running of the event. This includes your personal team and other required personnel such as, camera operators, lighting operators, sound controllers, car park assistants, caterers, etc. 
  • Split your event into workable categories. Make sure you assigned a team member to take charge of each category. 
  • Make sure the overall event coordinator has no other task than coordination.
  • Assigned a suitable person to act as a master of ceremonies. (This person is also considered part of your team) 
  • Make sure your program is structured so that the attendees have time to eat, bathroom breaks and occasional breaks. 
  • Assign a team member to be in charge of making sure local by laws are met and making sure the insurance is in place. 
  • Assign a host. 
  • Make sure you have appointed personnel to deal with unwanted situations. This includes assistants. 



This is a guideline to some of the most important team members and roles that you need in order to create an event/convention. Although, these check points depend on the event, the number of attendees, objectives, budget, among others. Positively, the team in charge of creating an event is CRUCIAL. However, making sure the communication, coordination, roles, balance of contributions, mutual support, effort and cohesion, appointed by the boss or project manager, are going to be the key factors in determining the quality and success of your event.


Conclusion: The TEAM Factor is the key factor to the success of your event and/or convention. Make sure the team you choose meets with all the requirements and necessities of the task. This way the event will result in SUCCESS. Teamwork is the word of the day!


Importance of Teamwork:





Sources: 
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKucprXVGMU
Information:
http://www.feministcampus.org/fmla/program-materials/pdf/6-- EventPlanning%20thru%20Public%20Speaking.pdf
http://www.wikihow.com/Organise-a-Convention

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Entertainment - NIGHTLIFE

Do the SALSA!!

If you are in the mood for dancing the night away, live latin music, good typical food at a great atmosphere, "The Latin Roots" (Club/Restaurant/Lounge) is your spot for the night! 


"The Latin Roots” is a Club, Restaurant and Lounge made for those passionate of the Latin music; Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata.

The club recently opened it's doors on November 2009, and its practical location at Historic Old San Juan makes this club a must see. Just entering the club you will feel the latin beat and history enter your mind. Starting with the club's walls, in them you can see the history of tropical music with the memorabilia of the greatest interpreters of the Latin music…

The most important Orchestras are part of the venues' calendar. They also present 
“Vive la Salsa” show,  this show is a musical magazine that will take you on a journey to the very roots of latin music.

Hungry from all the dancing? The Latin Roots cuisine is an extravaganza of all the  Island’s delicacies. The tradition of Puerto Rican cuisine and the fusion of tropical flavors offer you a unique menu, specially designed for you.

Don't know how to salsa? In 
“The Latin Roots” you will also learn how to dance Salsa. With the opportunity of getting some dancing lessons at the club, their Salsa teachers are always available to make your visit at “The Latin Roots” an unforgettable experience…

Have "The Latin Roots" all to yourself! The club offers the opportunity to celebrate Private Parties and Events. 



PRIVATE PARTIES
“The Roots” room is the perfect place to celebrate your party. This room has a capacity of 60 people, a bar and bartenders dedicated to your party only. The club's personnel will take care of all the details of your event. In addition, they will give you a bottle of champagne so you can enjoy your party!


PRIVATE EVENTS
Likewise, their room is available for events of up to 800 people. Their services include music, food, drinks, shows and everything you need for your event to be a complete success.

The club opens Monday thru Sundays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM. 

During the day…
The venue in the Old San Juan area fills up with color, art and music. Learn how to dance to the rhythm of a live orchestra and with the best Salsa teachers, enjoy spectacular dance exhibitions, and you can catch the musical magazine The Salsa Dream with beautiful dancers and great singers while you enjoy the delicious Puerto Rican food.


During the night…
At nightfall, “The Latin Roots” turns to an elegant and sophisticated club where you can dance to the rhythm of the greatest Salsa, Merengue and Bachata orchestras. Each new day, a new rhythm goes along with Salsa at “The Latin Roots”. On Tuesdays they mix it with Bachata, Wednesdays and Sundays with Merengue…

Get Schooled!! On Mondays and Thursdays, Salsa classes are the main course of the dance floor and on Fridays and Saturdays enjoy the greatest interpreters of tropical music.

This is definitely the place to enjoy live latin music! For more information you can access the club's official Website The Latin Roots

A BAILARRR! 
(Danceee) 


References: 
http://www.thelatinroots.com/


Pictures: 
http://puertorico.mydestinationinfo.com/en/the-latin-roots
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.frylow.com/logos/latinroots.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.frylow.com/frylow_testimonials.html&usg=__B9LhKcVrjOVB_XLB2L6lqWJbu9M=&h=94&w=213&sz=11&hl=en&start=31&sig2=fxaz3jWXqQhdjInpennd4g&zoom=1&tbnid=iD2Hx05QQecBTM:&tbnh=75&tbnw=170&ei=7G2-TPqbMsWBlAfVo9HiBw&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dthe%2Blatin%2Broots%2Bpuerto%2Brico%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dsafari%26rls%3Den%26biw%3D1440%26bih%3D780%26tbs%3Disch:10%2C727&um=1&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=308&oei=uW2-TPGHAYO0lQf548jkBw&esq=2&page=2&ndsp=28&ved=1t:429,r:8,s:31&tx=64&ty=49&biw=1440&bih=780 

Friday, October 15, 2010

Puerto Rico Convention Center


Puerto Rico has various venues for different types of activities and events. However, if you are planning on creating a top of the line convention these is no doubt that the Puerto Rico Convention Center is the best way to go.

The Convention Center is located in historic district of Miramar in San Juan and was inaugurated on November 2005. The convention center is owned by the Puerto Rico Convention District Authority, and managed by SMG.  Designed by TvDesign, it is the largest convention center in the Caribbean and the most technologically advanced in Latin America.

I had the opportunity to talk with Melissa Figueroa, Assistant Coordinator of the Convention Center and she was able to offer us more insight on their services and the facilities.

PR Dive In- The convention center is relatively new, has it gained the popularity you expected on the production of conventions and events.

M. Figueroa – Definitely! The convention center opened its door on 2005 and we have been able to create numerous conventions and events since it’s opening. We also have been the home to various graduation ceremonies and nightlife events for big local companies like Medalla. We also have our calendar full with Expos of different industries.




PR Dive In – The convention center is known as the largest convention center in the Caribbean, how many people can the center accommodate? Click Here to see the Convention Center’s Floor Plan.


M.Figueroa - The convention center is able to accommodate groups of up to 25,000 people with a total space of 580,000 square feet and 152,700 sq ft of total exhibit space subdivided into three halls, all on one level. The center has adjacent parking lots with a total capacity of 1,800 vehicles, although this may be increased in the future.


PR Dive In - The convention center is located in a very centric location, What surrounding facilities can people enjoy while having an event on the Convention Center?

M.Figueroa-  We are located in the PRCC District that includes a Sheraton Hotel  footsteps away from the center. Also we have Ficus Café, a “side walk café” that offers nightlife entertainment. As I mention before we are practically starting developing more recreational areas surrounding the center. The PRCC plans to include a 96-unit residential building, office buildings with 50,000 feet of commercial space, a retail and entertainment complex, a cinema, waterfront cafes, restaurants and walkways. Most of these are still under construction.


PR Dive In – For those interested more on your services and facilities, whom can they contact?

M. Figueroa - You can visit our official website Puerto Rico Convention Center or calling our offices to (787) 641-PRCC (7722) or send us an email to info@prconvention.com


Big thanks to Ms. Figueroa and keep visiting because PR Dive will continue to keep posting more services and opportunities in this venue.

ENJOY! 

Thursday, October 7, 2010

PR Flashback

Getting to know Puerto Rico "La Isla del Encanto" more throughly...


Puerto Rican Flag 
Puerto Rico, officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. The island is 100 miles long by 35 miles wide and as a result of its geographical position in the center of the arc of the Antilles, Puerto Rico is essentially a crossroads of Hispanic and Anglo cultures. Puerto Rico has been a part of the United States since 1898 and Puerto Ricans have been U.S. Citizens since 1917. 


Island of Puerto Rico 
Close to 4 million people live on the "The Island of Enchantment", with more than a million in the greater San Juan metropolitan area alone. It is a vibrant, modern, bilingual, multicultural society, one that has been molded by Spanish, African, Indian and U.S. influences. Residents in PR have much in common with their fellow Americans in the United States, but still maintain decidedly their Hispanic heritage. 


The climate is as close to perfect as it can get, averaging 83 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during summer. Safe to say its always summer! 


Green Beach - Vieques, Puerto Rico 

Much of Puerto Rican culture centers on the influence of music. Like the country as a whole, music has been developed by mixing other cultures with local and traditional rhythms. The Caribbean has a well-deserved reputation as a quiet, laid-back place, where hammocks are more common than parties. But Puerto Ricans, however, truly know how to party, and the nightlife in the island's bigger cities and resort hotels rivals even the world's most cosmopolitan cities. With numerous restaurants of all tastes, great variety of stores, casinos, spectacular golf courses, and plenty of nightclubs Puerto Rico is picture perfect! 



Morro- Old San Juan 
Both Spanish and English are the official languages, and the local currency is the U.S dollar. Best of all you DON'T need a visa or a passport to enter Puerto Rico from the U.S.  


So get ready to relax, explore local exotic hideaways, enjoy miles of sandy white beaches, mountains, valleys and rainforests. Open up to new history and culture, take pleasure in the exciting nightlife and entertainment. Surround yourself with warm and friendly people and discover why Puerto Rico Does It Better! 


Bienvenidos a Puerto Rico - Welcome to Puerto Rico .....Dive Right In!





References: 
Puerto Rico Tourism Company. http://www.gotopuertorico.com/
Welcome to Puerto Rico. http://welcome.topuertorico.org/index.shtml
VIDEO: Promo Turismo Puerto Rico 2009. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atqPHxF9wWQ&feature=related

Monday, October 4, 2010

Welcome To Puerto Rico!



Hola!! Welcome & get ready to Dive IN!: Events, Conventions & More... Here you will be able to get all the necessary information about the beautiful caribbean island of Puerto Rico. Now this blog is not a traditional tourist blog but it also demonstrates the services and opportunities the island offers within the entertainment industry and in the production of events and conventions. In addition, the blog includes a number of different topics like finance, legal, trends, etc. regarding the event planning industry. C'mon Dive IN! 
                    


For extra information of the island's history, culture, nightlife, and more. You can access the official Puerto Rico Tourism Company website. 

 
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