Capability Events Ltd

Marquee Party Package for a 150 guests in your garden

2011-01-22T19:05:00.005Z

Our most popular Party Package for Birthday Parties at home in your garden.

Suitable for up to 150 guests, this party package is your complete event solution. All the items for a great party are here.

Three Chinese Hat Marquees look great in your garden (note this package is for 4 hat marquees)

We've put together this fantastic party package using our new Chinese Hat Marquees.

Chill out zone

This Party Package is perfect for Birthday or Anniversaries parties or events where you don't have a sit down meal. (We can expand the marquee size if you need space for a sit down meal)

Red Carpet Entrance

Complete with:-

4 Chinese Hat Marquee, Carpeted - Looks great in your garden
Cocktail Bar with Fantastic Mirrored Back Bar and Large Built In Fridge
Chrome and Leather Bar Stools and High Bar Tables
47 inch LCD TV Screen and laptop to display your party pictures on
4 Chill Out Sofas
4 Low white tables
20 Bean Bag cubes
Mobile Nightclub including DJ Stage, JBL PA, Numark Double CD Mixer with Mic
Nightclub Lighting including moving lights, LED Panels, UV Cannon Etc.
Glossy Black and White Dance Floor
LED uplighting throughout the marquees

Party ready to start - Cocktail bar on the left, nightclub at the top and the chill out zone on the right

Garden Lighting consisting of City Colours, Spike Lights and FairyLights
2 x Patio Heaters
2 x Flambeaux
2 x Garden Patio Set with Parasols
3 x Glass topped poser tables
9 x Bar Stools
10 x Giant Bean Bags
Gas Heater for the Marquees
Red Carpet Entrance with Tri Lit Truss wrapped in FairyLights
Power distribution from your house (All our cables and sockets are waterproof)

Black and White Dancefloor and Nightclub set up.

We have assumed you have a flat grass garden and that you have enough space to accommodate the marquees. You will need a minimum 12 x 12m of free flat space. Small bushes and trees can be accommodated.

Assuming your party is on a Saturday night we would normally install this event the day before (Friday) and remove on the Monday.

Guests enjoy the nightclub

Package Price includes transport, set up, take down and insurance.

Whatever the weather - 8 inches of snow - Dec 2010

We can also supply additional services including, Event Staff, Cocktail Bar Staff, DJ's and Caterers. Just ask.

Total cost of this package is available for the Special Offer Price of £8999.99 Inc Vat

How to have a Celebrity DJ and Live Band at your Party

2010-10-28T19:34:00.001+01:00

Hands in the air for Rick Parfitt live at a Capability Event

How to get a Top Band or DJ at your Party

Scouting For Girls played at a Capability Events Sweet 18

In this particular instance Scouting for Girls performed and were quite simply amazing!

The following package is for a Celebrity Artist party:-

Car park attendant - Welcomes and organises the guests parking - later becomes a barman
Tri-lite goal post truss entrance with fairy light and two real flame gas flambeaux
Member of staff to greet guests
HMI flood lights and city lights to front of house - uplighting features
Fairy light to selection of selection of bushes around the marquee entrance
3m x 12m blacked out tunnel entrance to marquee with haze machine
9m x 21m clearspan marquee with black carpet
Alloy entrance door
Flat ivory wall lining
Starcloth ceiling
16 x 16ft black and white dance floor
6m x 12m Chine Hat style chill out marquee with flat lining, black carpet
LED uplighting
Marquee lighting and heating
6 x low level sofas with black and ivory covers
25 x beanbag cubes
7 x low white tables
5 x poseur tables
20 x chrome and leather bar stools
12 x black and white scatter cushions
18ft white glossy fronted down-lit bar with 6ft back bar
Triple glass fronted fridge
All necessary bar glassware and equipment
Draught equipment
3 x bar staff
1 x cocktail flairer
Sparkling wine reception drink
£1200 + vat cost price stock on sale or return
Mobile nightclub to inc brushed stainless steel DJ booth, smoke machine, stage,
Tri lite truss, (in tunnel configuration) truss illumination, moving head lights and scanners,
LED battens and colour blocks, trackspots, glitter ball with pin spot,PA,
Wireless Mic, decks.
House DJ Lora
Luxury 2:1 ratio mobile toilet unit
LCD screen with laptop and photographer
3 x SIA security
1 x Event manager
Power distribution
Lighting to smoking area, ashtrays and two patio heaters
Performance from Scouting for Girls

DJ Lora plays to a hyper crowd at a large private party

Other celebrity bands and DJ's can be provided. Recent events and offers from agents have allowed us to supply Scouting For Girls, The Hoosiers, Katy B, Chase and Status, Rik Parfitt Jnr, DJ Lora and many others.

Pixie Lott at an 18th by Capability Events

This type of party package does obviously cost more due to the type of act. However it does give an amazing party.

The cost for this no hassle party package was £35,999.00.

Johnny Borrell from Razorlight plays and acoustic set for Redbull

Depending on the Artist booked, date and location this party package can vary quite considerably in cost. So before you make any decisions you should talk to our Expert Party Planner Nick on 01684 833133 or nick@capabilityevents.co.uk

Private Party Package for 150 Guests with Dome Marquees

2010-10-21T16:29:00.006+01:00

In 2010 we have had an increasing number of clients wanting something a little different for their marquee parties. One of our favourite structures to use for that "wow factor" at extra smart events are dome marquees.

The package below is based on an event that we produced for a repeat private client in September to accommodate 150 guests.

The package included:

10 x city colour lights
HMI lighting to front of house
Tree up-lighting
Fairy light to bushes and fencing
Up-lighting to back of house
Security member of staff on front gate
2 x real flame gas flambeaux
9 x 9m dome marquee with charcoal carpet over wooden floor
3 3x3 dome pods as food stations
Dome heating and lighting
9 x 12m clearspan frame marquee with charcoal carpet
9 x 9m starcloth ceiling
Flat lined walls in ivory
Nighclub lighting
16 x 16ft black and white dance floor
3.3m diameter brushed stainless steel bar with break up gobo shining onto front
Triple fronted fridge
Draught equipment
Cocktail menu
All necessary bar glassware and equipment
3 bar staff
1 x cocktail flairer
Cocktail welcome drink
£1750 + vat of cost price stock on sale or return
Smoke machine
Stage with valance
Trilite truss to roof of marquee
Truss illumination
Moving head lights and scanners
LED batons and colour blocks
Lasers
Glitter ball and pin spot light
Full pa to include speakers, bass bins and amps
CD decks and wireless mic
DJ
2:1 ratio luxury mobile toilet block
Power distribution
6 x low level sofas with ivory cover and scatter cushions
6 x low level white tables
20 x beanbags from a selection of giant beanbags, floor cushions and cubes
5 x poseur tables
15 x bar stools
Event manager
Roaming photographer

This package came in at approx £17,000 + vat and can be easily tailored to suit your individual requirements.

The final look was stunning and the party was fantastic but don't just take our word for it:

"Another fantastic party - thank you very much for everything you did. It was a real success and we loved every minute!" Georgie, Hampshire.

Please contact Nick on 01684 833133 or nick@capabilityevents.co.uk to discuss your event and we can put together a bespoke package especially for you.

Private Party in a Marquee for 100 guests at home

2010-10-18T16:20:00.013+01:00

Ice Sculpture forms a fantastic centrepiece for this 21st

21st Party Package also a suitable template for other Birthday or Anniversary Parties.

Here is a great party package which includes everything needed for a great night including a silver service 3 course meal.

Flair bartender Jason throws bottles to delight guests. Nightclub in the background

Below are details from a 21st Birthday Party in a marquee that we produced on a garden in Cambridgeshire. This package can be easily adapted for any kind of celebration, from Christmas celebrations to Birthday Parties.

Capability Events offers a fantastic no hassle solution for your event with only one contact.

Black and white gloss dancefloor with cocktail bar to the left

Complete package includes:-

Up-lighting of front and back of house - Colour changing, including Sky Tracker
Ground based spike lights to light driveway - From car park to entrance
Fairy lighting on bushes and shrubs
9m x 24m clearspan frame marquee with flat ivory linings
9 x 9m star cloth lining above dancefloor
Charcoal carpet over waterproof membrane
Double door entrance
3 x glass topped poseur tables
16 x 16ft black and white dance floor
12ft white glossy fronted bar
6ft back bar with mirror attachment and fridge
All necessary bar glassware and cocktail equipment
£1000 + vat of cost price stock on sale or return
Glass washer
2m x 30m red carpet - For the entrance
2 x gas flambeaux - either side of the entrance
6m x 6m catering tent with mat flooring and strip lighting
LCD screen with stand, laptop and cables - to play pictures taken during the evening
Roaming photographer - taking reportage shots all night
Mobile nightclub - 5kw PA with Intelligent moving head lighting
16 x 8ft x 1ft stage with valance
Marquee heating
Interior LED colour changing marquee uplighting
10 x 5ft 6 round tables
100 Banqueting chairs
5 x low level sofas with ivory covers
2 x Sky Trackers
Exterior wash lighting with colour changing city lights
10 x beanbag cubes
4 x low white tables
Moroccan lanterns and candles
Moroccan rugs
2:1 ratio mobile toilet unit
Full event power distribution - Power for kitchen, stage, bar and outside lighting
Event manager - Overseas the install of all equipment, runs the event and the clear up
2 x bar staff
1 x cocktail flairer
Our best DJ
3 course silver service meal

Guests dance the night away to our mobile nightclub

This package came in at approx £21,999.00 with the meal and £16,999.00 without. It can be easily tailored to suit your individual requirements.

We think the client from this event's testimonial speaks for itself:-

"We can not thank you and your team enough. The effort, professionalism and thoughtfulness in all you did was simply fantastic. Our guests have been positively overflowing with praise and admiration. We are enjoying basking in your glory!

Please pass on our thanks to Nick, Jason, Lorcan and Paul.What a team and such energy. Oh to be young!

Clare has already said she wants a Capability Event for her 21st. Being February it'll be a little bit more challenging! We've already started thinking about it....maybe a masked ball...

Once again, many many thanks.

Alyson and Clemence xx"

We can adapt any of our packages to suit your requirements so please don't hesitate to contact Nick on 01684 833133 or email on nick@capabilityevents.co.uk for a chat.

Party Packages - Marquee Plans

2010-08-30T23:33:00.005+01:00

Here are a few of our party plans. These are all from our 2010 season.

We thought that you might find them helpful when thinking about your own event or party.

You could use them to kick start your planning process. Behind each plan was a successful event so we could either recreate that event for you or just modify to make it fit your party.

Clicking on any image makes it much larger.

Birthday party across two gardens. The green line is a hedge and the larger brown rectangles are flowerbeds. Plan 23

Guests could move from the bar and chillout area through to the nightclub area

The party had a wild west theme. Guests could sit on straw bales at long table as well as being served from a bar made of straw bales.

Plan for a Dome marquee and frame marquee. Very much based around a nighclub feel. Plan 24

Plan 24

Marquee set up for a nightclub party for 100 guests. Plan 25

Plan 25

Plan 26

Plan26 Nightclub set up for 100 guests

Plan 27

Wedding marquee plan for 60 guests. Plan 28

Wedding marquee layout with cocktail bar and nightclub set up. Plan 28

Plan 28

Marquee layout for 100 guests sit down meal, Cocktail bar, chill out zone and nightclub. Plan 29

Marquee layout showing seating for 100 guests, Cocktail reception area and Nightclub with chillout zone. Plan 29

Plan 29

90 people layout for a 40th birthday. Plan 40

Plan 40

80 guests birthday party. Plan 41

Plan 41

Plan 41 showing seating for 80 guests, nightclub, Cocktail bar and chill out sofas

Extensive nightclub setup for 400 people. Large chillout area and bar. Plan 42

Exhibition stand design. Plan 43

Ball for 250 guests seated at tables of 10. Large Dancefloor and nightclub. Plan 44

Student Ball for a top University - 1000 people capacity. Plan 45

Wedding Layout for 90 guests. Plan 46

Basic layout plan for 380 guest ball. Plan 47

Marquee Party Package for 70 people in your Garden

2010-08-23T22:34:00.009+01:00

View from the DJ booth (note this picture shows four Chinese Hat Marquees - The package below is for two)

Here is a fantastic party package for the smaller event.

Suitable for 70 people max this twin Chinese Hat layout is about as small as you can go and still entertain 70 people.

Red Carpet entrance.

This party package is ideal for Birthday Parties, Anniversaries and Garden Parties where you don't need to sit down for a meal.

Plan of the event drawn to scale

Complete Package Includes:-

• 2 New Chinese Hat Marquee, Carpeted - Looks great in your garden
• Red Carpet Entrance
• Cocktail Bar with Fantastic Mirrored Back Bar and Large Built In Fridge
• Chrome and Leather Bar Stools and High Bar Tables
• 47 inch LCD TV Screen and laptop to display your party pictures on
• 2 Chill Out Sofas
• 2 Low white tables
• 10 Bean Bag cubes
• Mobile Nightclub including DJ Stage, JBL PA, Numark Double CD Mixer with Mic

View of the bar and nightclub. (note this picture shows four Chinese Hat Marquees - The package below is for two)

• Nightclub Lighting including moving lights, LED Panels, UV Cannon Etc.
• Glossy Black and White Dance Floor
• LED uplighting throughout the marquees
• Garden Lighting consisting of City Colours, Spike Lights and FairyLights
• 2 x Patio Heaters
• 2 x Flambeaux
• 2 x Garden Patio Set with Parasols
• 5 x Outdoor Giant Bean Bags
• Gas Heater for the Marquees
• Power distribution from your house (All our cables and sockets are waterproof)

Plan of party showing the items to scale

Chill out sofas and bean bags

• We assume you have a flat grass garden and that you have enough space to accommodate the marquees. You will need 6m x 12m of free flat space at the absolute minimum. Small bushes and trees can be accommodated.
• As an example - Assuming your party is on a Saturday night we would normally install this event the day before (Friday) and remove on the Monday.

Chill out zone

• Package Price includes transport, set up, take down and insurance.
• We can also supply additional services including, Event Staff, Cocktail Bar Staff, DJ's and Caterers. Just ask.

Special Offer Price of £5000 inc Vat

Call Nick for more details on 01684 833133 or nick@capabilityevents.co.uk

Plan view from above

Corporate Package For 300 Guests-Perfect For Christmas or Summer Party

2010-08-20T12:00:00.014+01:00

This party package is perfect for a Charity Ball or Company Party for 300 guests.

We provide everything from the catering to the power distribution.

With our packages, we can supply as much or as little equipment as you need.

This package includes:

Red carpet entrance with two real flame gas flambeaux, tri-lite goalpost truss and two Sky Tracker searchlights
15 x 36m Frame marquee with linings and swags
Starcloth lining over 9 x 12m dance floor
30 x 6ft round tables
300 x beechwood chairs
20 x trestle tables

9 x 18m Frame marquee with linings for catering and casino area
3 x low level sofas
3 x low level tables
6 x scatter cushions
18ft white glossy fronted down lit bar
6ft back bar with mirror attachment and fridge
All necessary bar equipment and glassware

5 bar staff and 1 cocktail flairer
Sparkling wine reception drink
Cost price stock on sale or return
Full mobile nightclub

Luxury mobile toilet unit
Power distribution
Event management
10 minute professional CAT 4 firework display
3 course silvers service meal.

This package is absolutely perfect for organiser's that want a no hassle solution to planning a large party. We own all the equipment ourselves meaning that you only have to deal with one company, rather than having several different suppliers. Our fantastic event manager's ensure that the party runs smoothly on the night and is quietly cleared away the next day leaving no trace of the night before.

For information on this, or any of our packages please contact Nick Harvey in the office on 01684 833133 or email nick@capabilityevents.co.uk

Party Package For 150 Guests set on a Tennis Court

2010-08-18T17:01:00.033+01:00

This Party Package is based on one of our favourite parties of the summer which saw us organise a party for a Record Producer who wanted to celebrate the completion of building his new house in beautiful Worcestershire. His enthusiasm for the celebration was infectious and our fantastic staff really made sure that the event went with a bang. As the finished product was so amazing, we thought we'd share the basic format of the event with you to give you ideas for your own events.

Bar staff prepare for a Champagne Reception

This party package caterers for up to 150 guests and is ideal for a more informal celebration with a real focus on the Nightclub aspect.

Marquee ready for the start of the party

Perfect for a private party at home.

The client had plenty of informal seating for guests but this package would not suit clients that wanted a sit down meal for the full 150 people. However, we could easily adapt the package to suit you if this is what you require.

Black and White dancefloor and cocktail bar

Please bear in mind that the list of items below is simply for the hire of the equipment and does not include bar staff, DJ, stock etc.

We can supply these aspects as much or as little as you need for your event and are always flexible with budgets so please let us know how we can help you.

Red Carpet entrance to the party. Chill out marquee to the right.

This Package Includes:-

Red carpet entrance with real flame gas flambeaux
Red carpet to marquee with real flame Olympic torches and 6 x 6m additional chill out marquee
9m wide x 21m long main marquee with ivory flat lining and carpeting
16ft x 16ft Black and White dancefloor

Nightclub lighting ensures a great night

9m x 9m star cloth roof lining (night sky) over the dancefloor
Mobile nightclub package
Marquee heating
18ft white glossy fronted bar
6ft back bar with mirror attachment
All necessary bar equipment and glassware
Glass washer
6 Low level sofas
6 Low level white tables

We lit the gardens, pool and marquee

20 Giant bean bags, ranging from floor cushions, cubes and large bags
4 Poseur tables
12 Bar stools
10 x 5ft round tables with white linen
100 x Gilt banqueting chair
3:1 Ratio luxury mobile toilet unit
HMI flood lights for car parking area
Power distribution
Firework display lasting approx 10 minutes

Fire Juggler entertains the guests

As always we can also supply additional services including Event Staff, Cocktail Bar Staff, Event Photographers, DJ's and Caterers. Please ask us for our full range of services and products.

Fireworks display at the end of the night

The cost of this package is £27938.00 inc Vat. Catering, staff and drink are extra.

To discuss your ideas please get in touch with Nick Harvey: nick@capabilityevents.co.uk or call us in the office on 01684 833133.

Party Package for 100 people in a Stretch Marquee over a Pool

2010-08-17T16:29:00.007+01:00

Red Carpet entrance to a frame marquee which moves through to a stretch marquee over the clients pool

We've put together a brilliant new marquee hire package that includes a Stretch Marquee for clients looking for a unique look at their party.

This party caters for up to 100 people for a sit down meal, free bar, disco and band which is absolutely ideal for a birthday party, wedding, anniversary or any other celebration you might have.

Guests enjoy a Champagne Reception under the stretch canopy

We can supply as little or as much as you need for your event and are always flexible with budgets so please let us know how we can help you.

This Party Package comes complete with:

• Car park lighting
• Red carpet entrance with 2 gas flambeaux and tri-lite goalpost entrance
• 10 x 15m stretch marquee
• 6ft white glossy fronted reception bar
• LED Wall uplighters

Guests chat and drink around the pool

• Small outdoor PA
• 12m x 15m Clearspan marquee, window walls
• "Starcloth" lining to roof, flat lining to walls
• Alloy double door entrance
• Charcoal carpet on waterproof membrane

Flat ivory lining over the dining area and starcloth over the dancefloor

• Pinspot lighting

• 16 x 16 ft black and white dance floor
• 10 x 5ft 6” round tables
• 100 banqueting chairs with seat pad
• Marquee heating and lighting

• 6 x 6m catering tent
• 5 x glass topped poseur tables
• 20 x chrome and leather bar stools
• 12ft white glossy fronted main bar
• 6ft back bar with mirror attachment and fridge underneath

• Luxury 2:1 ratio mobile toilet unit
• Power distribution from your house
• Mobile nightclub to inc smoke machine, stage, small PA, moving headlights and scanners, LED batons and colour blocks.
• DJ to play to your tastes.
• £1000.00 worth of cost price drink behind the bar. Including a reception drink, wine for the tables and cocktails.
• Event manager
• Bar staff and clear up staff

Assuming your party is on a Saturday night we would normally install this event the day before (Friday) and remove on the Monday.  

We can also supply additional services including event staff, cocktail bar staff, photographers, DJ's and caterers. Just ask.

This package as above without the catering comes in at £18,999.00 Inc Vat

With a three course meal served to the tables this package costs £21,999.00 Inc Vat

To discuss some ideas please get in touch with Nick Harvey: nick@capabilityevents.co.uk or call 01684 833133.

Moroccan Themed Marquee Party Package for 100 Guests

2010-08-17T16:16:00.092+01:00

Moroccan Themed Marquee set for 100 people party.

Themed parties are becoming increasingly popular. One of the favourites of 2010 has been our Moroccan themed party.

With luxurious fabrics and interiors, relaxing furnishings and a fabulous atmosphere we can easily see why lots of our clients have chosen this particular theme to base their event around. Below is a package for a birthday celebration in a marquee in a clients garden.

Marquee with Moroccan interior. Down the left hand side you can see the full panoramic window walls overlooking the clients orchard.

This package is suitable for up to 100 guests with room for a sit down meal, a dance floor and stage for a band or DJ.

The Party Package Includes:-

• Red carpet leading to marquee entrance
• Festoon lighting in trees and HMI lights
• 9m x 15m Frame marquee
• Moroccan themed linings, carpets and soft furnishings
• 16ft x 8ft x 1ft stage for band
• Marquee heating and lighting

Low seating and cushions are very popular with guests.

• Mobile Bar and All necessary bar equipment
• Glassware and Glass washer
• £1000 worth of cost price alcohol. (full range of drinks and wines inc reception drink)
• LED up-lighters in red and orange
• Up-lighting of bar area
• 2 x low level Ottoman tables with cushion seating

Brass lanterns set high in the roof of the marquee

• Floor rugs, Red and yellow small cushions
• 4 x 6ft live Palm trees, 2 x giant brass dish on stands
• 8 x 5ft 6” round tables and 80 x banqueting chairs
• Band (choose from a selection of great bands)
• DJ and Mobile Nightclub in keeping with the Moroccan theme
• 2:1 luxury mobile toilet unit
• Power distribution
• Event Manager
• 3 x Bar Staff
• Package includes the planning and organising of the party, any licencing needed, insurance, clear up after the party to return the event site to it's original state.

Soft lighting, hanging lanterns and candles complete the look.

Moroccan Party Package for 100 guests £17,899.00

Option of Moroccan catering:- £25.00 per head. Based on 100 guests.

Great Moroccan dishes perfectly fit the theme.

For information on this, or any of our other packages, please contact Nick Harvey on 01684 833133 or by email at nick@capabilityevents.co.uk

Guests dance the night away

We always love to hear from you and can create your own bespoke party package upon request.

Marquee Party Package for a 100 people Garden Party

2010-08-12T18:47:00.010+01:00

Red Carpet Entrance with Gas Flambeaux and Chinese Hat Marquees

We've put together this fantastic party package using our new Chinese Hat Marquees.

The Show Must Go On! 8 inches of snow fails to stop the party -Dec 2010

This Party Package is absolutely ideal for a Summer Garden Party for up to 100 people. Perfect for Birthday or Anniversaries parties or events where you don't have a sit down meal. (We can expand the marquee size if you need space for a sit down meal)

Chinese Hats look great in your garden

Complete with:-

3 Chinese Hat Marquee, Carpeted - Looks great in your garden
Cocktail Bar with Fantastic Mirrored Back Bar and Large Built In Fridge
Chrome and Leather Bar Stools and High Bar Tables
47 inch LCD TV Screen and laptop to display your party pictures on
3 Chill Out Sofas
3 Low white tables
20 Bean Bag cubes

Inside the Chinese Hat marques. (note this picture shows four hats together, however this package is for three)

Mobile Nightclub including DJ Stage, JBL PA, Numark Double CD Mixer with Mic
Nightclub Lighting including moving lights, LED Panels, UV Cannon Etc.
Glossy Black and White Dance Floor
LED uplighting throughout the marquees
Garden Lighting consisting of City Colours, Spike Lights and FairyLights
2 x Patio Heaters
2 x Flambeaux
2 x Garden Patio Set with Parasols
3 x Glass topped poser tables
9 x Bar Stools

Mobile Nightclub set up over the black and white danefloor

10 x Giant Bean Bags
Gas Heater for the Marquees
Red Carpet Entrance with Tri Lit Truss wrapped in FairyLights
Power distribution from your house (All our cables and sockets are waterproof)

Plan of the marquee layout

We have assumed you have a flat grass garden and that you have enough space to accommodate the marquees. You will need a minimum 12 x 12m of free flat space. Small bushes and trees can be accommodated.
Assuming your party is on a Saturday night we would normally install this event the day before (Friday) and remove on the Monday.

Nightclub in full swing

Package Price includes transport, set up, take down and insurance.
We can also supply additional services including, Event Staff, Cocktail Bar Staff, DJ's and Caterers. Just ask.

Total cost of this package is available for the Special Offer Price of £6999.99 Inc Vat

Call Nick for more details on 01684 833133 or nick@capabilityevents.co.uk

21st Birthday Party Package, complete with hot tub!

2010-08-12T10:35:00.006+01:00

When clients first approach us about having a marquee at home, they quite often have concerns about the layout of their gardens and how everything will fit. Over the years we have managed to erect marquees over swimming pools, on very steep slopes, over steps and to include trees so we're not easily phased and love a challenge.

Earlier this year we put together a 21st birthday party in South London for a birthday boy who's main concern was making sure his much loved hot tub could be in the marquee for when the party got going!

We installed a 9m x 12m marquee which housed everything from a mobile nightclub, a cocktail bar, poker tables and chill out furniture, right down to the treasured hot tub which was put to good use during the evening!

Guests were treated to a selection of specially themed cocktails created by our fantastic cocktail flairers and mixologists. Drinks were served from a 3.6m mobile cocktail bar which was down-lit in electric blue and proved to be very popular with the female guests!

The birthday boy also requested one of our most popular services of a roaming photographer who takes photographs during the night and uploads them to a large plasma screen when they run on a slideshow for guests to see. After the party, we put together a photobook of the best images and send them to our client as a little reminder of the night. Something that is always gladly received!

Surprise 18th Birthday Party Package

2010-08-11T15:51:00.006+01:00

One of our staff's favourite events to work at are 18th and 21st Birthday parties as they are always a fantastic night. We love putting a bespoke package together knowing that the outcome will be unforgettable!

We were approached by a brilliant big sister at the beginning of this year to plan a surprise 18th birthday party for her little brother in their garden. She had very specific ideas about how the party should be, so cue lots of undercover meetings and sneaky phone calls.

The family had a fantastic garden with lots of space so we installed a large marquee with a glamorous red carpet entrance to add real "wow factor" for guests' arrival. We up-lit the house and lit a selection of trees and bushes to make the most of the great surroundings. Inside the marquee guests were treated to a Champagne and cocktails prepared by our award winning cocktail flairers and indulged in a selection of delicious canapes.

We installed an eye catching gloss black LED dance floor with our ever popular full mobile nightclub rig and had our brilliant DJ chat through the birthday boy's music tastes with his friends and family prior to the party to ensure we played all his favourites. When guests had tired themselves out they were able to relax on our chill out furniture with an early morning snack of bacon butties and hot pork rolls.

The party was fantastic, with the birthday boy overwhelmed by the surprise! We have already been signed up to start planning his father's 50th next year and are looking forward to making it even better.

100 People Marquee Wedding Package

2010-08-10T14:02:00.004+01:00

This Wedding Reception Package has been specifically designed to show you what you need for your Wedding Reception for 100 people.

It includes everything needed for a 100 people sit down meal in a marquee.

All you need to do is add the Caterers and drink for behind the bar. (we could always run a Cocktail Bar for you if needed)

We have assumed you have the space for the marquee and that your garden or area is flat grass.

Do contact us to talk through the options for your wedding. You don't have to have all the items listed in the quote. They are shown to give you an idea of what is possible.

Prices are correct for 2011 events. Contact us 01684 833133 or ben@capabilityevents.co.uk

Here is the quote as a PDF. This should open directly on your computer. If not google "adobe acrobat". It's free to download and use.

100 People Wedding Package

18th & 21st birthday celebrations

2010-08-07T19:12:00.004+01:00

Guests Love Our Mobile Nightclubs

2010 saw CapabilityEvents Ltd organising more of our successful 'young' adult parties. The majority of these have been for approximately 150 guests in a marquee at a private residence. We have quite a unique way of approaching these events and ensuring a fantastic night.

Red Carpet Entrance with Flambeaux and Sky Tracker

We all know the story; a daughter or son has reached a landmark age and they want to celebrate with friends and family in a way befitting their age. Their parents, however, want to ensure that the event is safe, and that all the young adults do not simply get steaming drunk and leave a nasty mess all over the house!

Stage and Band Setup with a Glossy Black and White Dance Floor

We are here to help. We take our time to talk with the son or daughter to best understand how they want to create their ultimate birthday celebration. We encourage them to use their imagination and allow them to be as 'adult' as they like. There is no patronising, just time taken to listen to their likes, dislikes and tastes.

Large 21st ready for the guests to arrive

We've heard the dream; we then talk to the parents to discuss the practicalities of realising their childs' dream. We have an in-depth and no obligation discussion about budget, natural concerns and the production aspects of the event. Most of these events take place at the family home so time is taken to explain the disruption clients can expect and all the pros and cons that can be associated with 'young adults' events.

The Band Rocks the Dance Floor

With ALL of our events that run a free bar for guests we ALWAYS supply drink at cost price and on sale or return. We charge no mark up. We normally set aside £10.00 + vat of cost price drink for guests over 18 yrs old. However, with 'young adult' celebrations we have some strong views. Experience over the years has taught us that we would much rather see young guests have 6 - 7 'weak' drinks or cocktails and really feel part of a bespoke party, as opposed to having two full strength cocktails and falling over early in the evening. Everything is identical to that of an adult event, even down to the look of the drinks and bar. If anything, more of an effort is made to decorate the bar and drinks, especially with young ladies parties.

Guests Party at one of our Mobile Nightclubs

We know these strong minded production value works. Letter from grateful parents stand testament to our unique way of managing these events. With minimal disruption to your family home, we ensure your children enjoy a safe and memorable celebration!

Another Great Survivors Photo

Red Bull Party

2010-08-03T14:21:00.008+01:00

While most of us are enjoying the sunshine over the Summer, (when we get it!) lots of companies are thinking ahead and have started the ball rolling for planning their Christmas party. Last year we were lucky enough to get a call to be involved in Red Bull's end of season bash which proved to be a lavish affair.

Following a season that saw them clinch five pole positions and six victories, Red Bull were more than due a celebration. They chose the stunning setting of Aynhoe Park in Oxfordshire to host an extravagant party in a marquee for the whole team.

The evening was hosted by British Formula One tv presenter Jake Humphrey and the team’s drivers, Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber, who wowed the crowd by roaring down the red carpet in an RB5.

After a delicious dinner and award's ceremony, guests were treated to a fantastic acoustic set from Razorlight front man, Johnny Borrell, followed by DJ Erok who played into the early hours and kept the mobile nightclub's dance floor full all night. When they weren't dancing, guests were able to relax on our chill out furniture which provided a much needed place for them to catch their breath!

Having run several events at Aynhoe Park previously, we were well acquainted with the venue and knew how lighting effects would transform it into something very special. Using everything from up-lighters, to gobos with the team's logo on them the final effect was fantastic. We look forward to hearing what they have planned for this year!

Lighting Hire for 21st Birthday

2010-08-03T13:21:00.005+01:00

Capability Events are experts in event lighting and we have a huge range of equipment ready to hire out in our Warehouse. We have seen a big increase over the past year of clients wanting to create a real "wow factor" for their guests before they've even entered the real event space. This is where we love to create a red carpet style entrance to give the venue a little something extra.

We were approached by a father who was organising a 21st Birthday party for his son at the fabulous Wynyard Hall in Billingham and wanted to add a little something special to the already stunning exterior. Our first thought was to create a little bit of Hollywood glamour with one of our most popular packages: a red carpet entrance.

We used two Hollywood premier style Sky Tracker searchlights which can be seen from over ten miles away to catch guests eyes as they approached the venue. We up-lit the front of the building with colour changing City Lights and LED Floodlights which created a brilliant effect for guests to enjoy as they travelled up the long drive. We then added real flame gas flambeaux, silk flames and Olympic torches to get a really striking effect.

This was all topped off with a tongue of red carpet that was marked off with traditional brass pole and red rope to give guests the real VIP treatment. Our client and the venue were delighted with the result and we hope to work with them both again in the future.

Wedding Lighting and Event Furniture Hire

2010-07-30T15:46:00.010+01:00

We are often contacted by Wedding Planners to provide event equipment on dry hire. We stock a wide range of items, from chill out furniture to lighting, and mobile bars to nightclub equipment, so are an ideal solution for event organisers who don't want the headache of using several different suppliers.

This Summer we supplied a selection of event equipment to a wedding held at the fantastic Wasing Park in Berkshire. The wedding organiser became stranded in Israel during the volcanic ash cloud problems so we swiftly went from being simply a supplier, to providing an Event Manager at the last minute to take her place.

The happy couple wanted a very relaxed feel to the day but to have a fantastic mobile nightclub as the focus in the evening. We supplied our chill out furniture for guests to relax on and then really concentrated on making the nightclub area a highlight for guests. Our lighting chief and technicians were on hand to make sure everything from the nightclub lighting to the uplighting of the marquee ran smoothly and gave the desired effect.

We also wanted to make sure the marquee looked as good from the outside as it did on the inside and make the most of the great venue. We installed City Lights, festoon lighting, HMI up-lighters and fairy lighting to give the area a real "wow factor" for when the evening guests arrived. The wedding organiser was thrilled when we sent over the "after" pictures to her and she has already asked us to work with her again on other events.

"Hi Ben, I heard that Sunday was a fab success! Very pleased! Thanks so much for all your help!"

Private joint 50th and 21st Birthday Party

2010-07-29T14:51:00.005+01:00

In the middle of a very hectic July, we organised a joint 50th and 21st for a father and son at a fantastic house in Oxfordshire. The brief was fairly simple: create a fabulous marquee based party for 250 guests with an age range of 18 to 60.

We installed our new circular truss, reconfigured into a tunnel over the dancefloor to create the basis for a striking nightclub area. This area was lit with the latest disco lighting and completed with a fantastic DJ who liaised with father and son beforehand to ensure that he played their favourite songs from the 60's to present day.

Guests were treated to a laid back buffet which they enjoyed from the comfort of our chill out furniture. When they had had enough of eating, our mobile cocktail bar served a selection of themed cocktails, as well as a full range of drinks. As always, our fantastic staff were on hand to ensure that the bar ran smoothly and our cocktail flairers added a touch of "wow factor" to the bar.

Once the party was over, guests headed over to specially erected teepees to camp for the night. We lit this area and the outside of the marquee using HMI lighting and City Colours to add a touch of atmosphere to the area and really make the most the stunning surroundings.

All of the guests and our staff enjoyed a fabulous night and the feedback has been brilliant. All of us at Capability Events are looking forward to planning the next one!

Malvern College Summer Ball

2010-07-29T14:17:00.004+01:00

We were thrilled when Malvern College asked us to organise their July Summer Ball again this year, having been involved for the last few years. We followed the same model as last year due to the fantastic feedback that we had from the College and their guests in 2009.

Over 500 of the college's students, staff and parents enjoyed a fantastic dinner and then made their way to the marquee which was positioned to make the most of the College's fantastic surroundings. The marquee was split into two sections: nightclub area and bar area with a clear centre to ensure guests had a great view of the firework display that was fired during the evening.

The bar area was filled with a 24ft white downlit glossy fronted bar, a chocolate fountain, a pig roast, a selection of our ever popular chill out furniture and hundreds of thirsty guests. Our fantastic staff managed the bar on behalf of the College with all funds going straight back to them. We also added a separate cocktail bar in the clear section of the marquee, complete with our fantastic cocktail flairers to add a touch of glamour to the evening.

The nightclub area boasted a 30 x 30 foot black and white dancefloor, the latest mobile nightclub spec and a fantastic DJ that kept the dancefloor packed all night.

Malvern College has such fantastic grounds that it is always a pleasure to light. We used a selection of architectural lighting, sky tracker search lights for a Hollywood effect, fairy light and real flame gas flambeaux to really show it off at its best.

We can't wait for next year and are already plotting with College staff about how we can outdo ourselves!

Private party in marquee

2010-07-28T13:07:00.008+01:00

In the Summer we always see a large rise in the amount of private parties that we produce, with the most popular option being a marquee in the client's garden. In May we organised a fabulous party for a client in Surrey and they were so thrilled with the results they came back to us to organise another event in June.

The party was to be a much more laid back affair than the first event, with the celebrations focused on a graduation and 50th birthday. It was an all day event with guests enjoying delicious catering and fabulous cocktails throughout the day and the dancing into the early hours. We provided everything from mobile toilets, to patio heaters and the marquees, giving the client a no hassle party solution and only one contact for the whole event. Our event managers liaised with the caterers, suppliers and staff to ensure everything ran smoothly leaving the client able to focus on enjoying the event.

Guests enjoyed a selection of cocktails upon arrival served by our fabulous staff from a mobile bar unit under a parasol. The main event space was housed in our very popular new Chinese Hat style marquees, which contained everything from chill out furniture to a full mobile nightclub rig and dance floor. The final effect was fantastic and we're looking forward to hearing what the client is plotting for the next party!

Hard Rock Calling

2010-07-27T16:05:00.004+01:00

In June, we were approached for the fifth year running to provide a large, bespoke bar dry hire for Hard Rock Calling. Thousands of fans flocked to the relaxed surroundings of Hyde Park in London to watch big names such as Pearl Jam and Paul McCartney and we were thrilled to be involved again.

Each year, we provide more bar units than the last, with us specially fabricating more units to ensure that our client had exactly what they needed. This year we sent over 150 meters of specially tailored black gloss bar fronts to be used for serving drinks and selling merchandise from. For the first year this year, we also supplied Chinese Hat style marquees to cover some of the units

As always, we love having our equipment associated with such a fantastic festival. We have already agreed to supplying next year's festival and have been told by the organisers that 2011's requirements will be even bigger and better than 2010. Bring on next year!

Fox Rocks - 500 Guests Ball - Rik Parfitt Jnr Headlining

2010-07-26T16:38:00.004+01:00

We organised this event for the Ledbury Summer Ball, "Fox Rocks."

Held in the grounds of a stunning private estate in Herefordshire, guests enjoyed a fun packed evening and partied well into the early hours. Capability Events provided everything from the marquee, to the lighting and sound production to create a brilliant night.

After a three course meal and Charity auction, guests were thrilled to see Rick Parfitt Jnr and the RPJ band appear from behind a secret reveal and play an energetic set. The band were followed up by the stunning DJ Lora who kept the dance floor packed for the rest of the evening.

We installed a 30ft long glossy white bar which served Champagne, wine, spirits, draught products and a selection of delicious themed "Fox Rocks" cocktails until 5am. The bar was run by our fabulous staff who all wore specially made polo shirts, with some of the girls even braving hot pants much to the male guests' delight!

It was a fantastic night and we're looking forward to raising the bar for next year!

School Charity Ball

2010-07-23T15:59:00.004+01:00

The first weekend in July was a very busy one for all of us at Capability Events. We ran five separate events, all in completely different locations across the UK. The first saw us heading to Beaconsfield to a private school for a charity ball. Originally we had been approached simply to provide a mobile pay bar for the evening but after finding out the huge ranges of services that we offer, the client's list of requirements swiftly grew!

The committee wanted to provide guests with a chilled Ibiza theme nightclub, which is proving to be a popular choice for Summer parties this year. We transformed the school's sport's hall with lighting effects, a mobile nightclub and a selection of furniture much to the delight of the surprised guests.

We installed a 30ft long glossy white down-lit bar into one side of the hall and added a selection of bar furniture for guests to congregate at. Guests were delighted to choose from a full bar or drinks from a bespoke cocktail menu while being entertained by our fabulous cocktail flairers.

The Main attraction of the evening was the full mobile nightclub rig that we installed, complete with a glossy white dance floor. Our DJ liaised with the committee before the event to ensure he played exactly what the crowd wanted and the dance floor was packed all night.

When guests had had enough of dancing they relaxed on the selection of chill out furniture, ranging from beanbag cubes to low level sofas. We have a huge range of this in our warehouse and it's becoming an increasingly popular choice for our clients this year.

The evening was fantastic and we would love to work with the committee again in the future. I'll leave the final word on the event to our client:

"Thanks again for your team's work on 3 July, I think the photos show that it was a super evening that also raised funds for our charities."

Moet Round Bar in the Park

2010-07-23T11:51:00.000+01:00

At the end of June we were approached by luxury brand giant, Moet Hennessy, to provide a Champagne bar for the Cheltenham Food Festival. The bar was to be positioned in an exclusive area of Montpellier Gardens to provide a little something extra for the visitors who were indulging in the selection of food, wine and real ale on offer over the weekend.

After chatting through what Moet had in mind, we decided this was a perfect opportunity to showcase our newly fabricated round bar. The new 1.2m brushed stainless units can be arranged in a circle, semi circle or used with our straight bar sections to produce a variety of shapes. We added bespoke branding to the bar fronts to ensure it really stood out underneath the striking Chinese Hat style marquee cover, as well as providing refrigeration and glassware.

Festival visitors enjoyed the sunshine with a glass, (or bottle!) of bubbly at dedicated sets of teak furniture with branded parasols. We've had fabulous feedback so far after our new bar's first outing and it's already highly in demand for our busy season. The round bar makes a fantastic addition to any event and adds real "wow factor," so please don't hesitate to call us for a quote should you be looking for something to make your event stand out.

Article in Cotswold Style Magazine

2010-07-07T11:02:00.002+01:00

Fame at last!

VIP party for Diageo

2010-04-22T13:36:00.009+01:00

Earlier this year we were lucky enough to be approached to produce a party for Diageo who's portfolio of drink's brands boast world famous names such as Guiness and Gordon's Gin. They were running a promotion which gave consumers the opportunity to win a VIP party and chose Capability Events Ltd to organise it for the winner.

After searching high and low, we finally found the perfect venue in the fabulous Hoghton Tower. With its commanding position, Elizabethan character and stunning Tudor gardens it really had the "wow factor" that we were looking for. We up-lit the front of the Manor with city colour lights and positioned Hollywood style Sky Tracker searchlights at the entrance to the party which can be seen from nearly 10 miles away! To add to VIP feel of the part we created a red carpet entrance with real flame gas flambeaux and a fairy lit truss for guests to walk through.

Guests were transported to the tower by luxury coaches and treated to a reception of Champagne and delicious canapes. This was followed by a sumptuous supper in the Great Hall area of the tower that we had lit with washes of colour changing light, fairy light, candles and a log fire. We also installed a 47-inch flat screen LCD TV on a stand to show images of guests on a scrolling slide show throughout the night. A roaming photographer was on hand to capture images and upload them during the evening.

After dinner guests enjoyed a complimentary bar, cocktails made with the finest Diageo ingredients by our fantastic flairer Jason and were entertained by up and coming band Bash Roland. After the band had finished their set, guests danced the night away in our full mobile nightclub which has proved to be very popular at recent private parties.

Our staff all had a great night in the fantastic venue and hopefully the competition winner felt like a VIP for the evening! We were really pleased to be asked to represent Diageo and would absolutely love to work with them again.

Private Client's 50th Birthday Party

2010-03-08T16:15:00.005Z

In October 2009, we organised an 18th birthday party for a client who was based at the other end of the country in Penzance. We were thrilled when she came back to us at the beginning of 2010 to organise her husband's 50th birthday and quickly made our way down to the seaside to chat through some ideas. Our client wanted a relaxed Moroccan atmosphere, with dinner, drinks and dancing...the only slight hitch being that the area where the marquee was to be sited was on rather a large slope in a field.
We installed a 9m x 15m clearspan marquee which had utilised scaffolding and leveled floor to overcome the issues of the slope. The marquee was split into two main areas; an eating area and a dancing/chill out area. The interior was lined with fabrics in Moroccan red and warm oranges to create a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
Inside the marquee, which was lit by LED lighting in warm colours, live Palm trees, intricate rugs, cushions and Ottoman seating added to the sumptuous surroundings. Guests enjoyed a free bar which served everything from Champagne to local beer, and were treated to canapes and a delicious Moroccan meal.To ensure guests didn't have to go too far to nip to the bathroom, we installed a luxury 2:1 ratio mobile toilet unit which are proving to be a popular option for many of our private clients. The pathway to the unit was lit for guests and the whole event area exterior was washed with light from HMI flood and festoon lighting to really make it stand out.
Although the weather really was against us, our fantastic staff ensured the party went without a hitch and we have already been invited back to organise an 18th birthday party for the client's daughter. Another satisfied customer!

Corporate Party to Launch a new London Landmark Hotel

2010-03-04T13:56:00.017Z

Corporate Party to Launch a new London Landmark Hotel

In December, we were approached by Weston Homes to produce a party to celebrate the completion of an exclusive new riverside development located on the South Bank of the Thames. As the development had just won the Best International High Rise Architecture award, the event had to reflect the stylish venue and make the most of its fabulous surroundings. Weston Homes wanted to entertain 200 guests that varied from the architects who had created the plans for the development, to potential future clients.

We had initially just been asked to put together a quote for the party itself but after a site visit, we suggested making a feature of the fantastic exterior of the building. We up-lit the building in the company colours of blue and white, which were made all the more striking by the reflections in the Thames.

We also added a bit of Hollywood glamour with the use of four Sky Tracker search lights and a red carpet entrance, complete with real flame gas flambeaux. Being situated next to the London Heliport, we had to liaise with the Civil Aviation Authority to ensure that our lighting effects didn't interfere with any incoming aircraft!

Party guests were greeted on arrival by our staff with a glass of Champagne and directed onto the thirteenth floor where the party was taking place. Guests stepped out of a lift into a corridor that had been up-lit with LED colour blocks, decorated with fairy light wrapped branches and had the company logo projected onto the ceiling. These effects were carried on throughout the event space, even including the bathrooms.

The corridor led to the main party area which housed a 13ft diameter round bar that was branded with the Weston Homes logo and lit in blue. Guests were treated to a selection of drinks from a bespoke cocktail menu prepared by our award winning cocktail flairers. Entertainment was provided by a fantastic four piece Jazz band, as well as a walkabout magician. We provided a PA with speakers for speeches and background music, as well as a cd player with Ipod connection to ensure all needs were covered. Guests were able to relax and enjoy the music on a selection of our very popular chill out furniture, which ranges from comfortable low level sofas to stylish bar stools and poseur tables.

The main event area led to a large balcony from which guests could enjoy the fabulous views across the river. We lit this area in the company colours and installed real flame gas flambeaux, as well as sets of teak furniture for the guests to have a comfortable break out area.

The provision of our event managers and experienced staff ensured that the event ran smoothly and both the client and ourselves were delighted with the results. It was fantastic to work with the staff at Weston Homes and we would be delighted to work with them on any future projects.

We're back!

2010-03-04T13:40:00.002Z

After a long break we're finally back to blogging! 2009 was our busiest year yet and unfortunately, we struggled to find the time to update you with what we were up to.

2010 looks to be even busier so one of our 2010 New Year's Resolutions was to write regular blog entries to keep you in the loop, (which also allows us to feel smug about the great events we have produced!)

We'll be giving you the inside information on the events we have been working on, as well as regular advice and handy hints if you're organising your own party. If there's anything we haven't been covering that you'd like to see on here just let us know.

Enjoy!

The Capability Events Ltd Team

Event Organising The Malvern College Summer Ball 2009

2009-07-20T14:23:00.012+01:00

"Thank you all very much indeed once again, it was a really superb night"

This was the fourth year running that Malvern college approached us to produce their annual end of term ball.

Having built a fantastic relationship with faculty over the past three years we were confident this year would be the best yet.

With extensive notes from last year and knowledge of what production works well within their grounds we bounded into our first production meeting with school boy enthusiasm.

The brief was simple:

To entertain 500 guests aged between 17 and 97 after dinner in the schools' houses.

As with previous years, both ourselves and the college wanted to make full use of their fantastic historical grounds and architecture.

As guests walked over from the houses after dinner they would approach the central courtyard of the school, flanked on three sides by the medieval architecture, with a St George statue in the middle and sweeping steps leading to flat tarmac and a grass area.

It was here that we erected three marquees.

The first would house a 30ft long bar, hog roast, chocolate fountain and live jazz quartet. Its sides would be clear pvc, allowing guests to look out across the school grounds and the magnificent views to the Malvern hills. We installed a series of low sofas, tables and giant bean bags to give guests a relaxing place to sit. It was fully carpeted with colour changing LED lights to slowly up light the marquee linings throughout the night.

The middle marquee was centrally positioned in front of the clock tower and St George at the top of the main steps. It was completely clear, allowing guests to soak up the fantastic architecture, watch the fireworks and enjoy a drink at the 12ft cocktail bar even in the event of rain. Poser tables and high black leather bar stools were placed around this area.

The final marquee was for the full mobile night club rig. With an impressive black and white dance floor overlaid onto red carpet, fully integrated light rigs using the latest technology and a powerful speaker system this room was designed and erected purely for dancing.

Red carpet was laid throughout the whole event space, leading to the top of the main steps to welcome guests. In the grassy area above the marquees we installed a series of outside furniture. The surrounding medieval buildings were up lit with a series of city colours, powerful up lights and two fantastic sky trackers. Small event flood lights were used to give light to the darkest corners and two gas flambes were installed either side of the steps by St George.

With finishing touches of fairy lights, red bar down lights to match the carpet and some extra large bean bags the event space was set up and ready for guests after a two day build.

Despite some torrential down pours the event was a huge success. The series of 3 marquees with a central clear span roof meant guests could enjoy the wonderful atmosphere, set off by the architectual lighting, flambes and sky trackers without fear of getting soaked.

A professional fireworks display was fired at 2230 hrs, with guests having a 360 degree view through the clear span. It was a fantastic backdrop to the event before guests enjoyed a cocktail, dancing and the chocolate fountain.

As always, it was a pleasure to work with the college again and we look forward to continuing success in 2010!

Testimonial from client:-

Dear Ben and Nick,

I'm writing to thank you both, Kate and all the staff you had working with us on

Friday at the ball. Throughout the evening a host of pupils, parents and teaching

staff came up to me to say what a superb event it was. It seems all the elements

came together extremely well: bar, music, marquees (especially the transparent

section), seating, lighting, fireworks, organisation and the overall smooth running

of everything.

In the three years I've been doing this event Friday was undoubtedly the most

successful thanks to your hard work, planning and organisation. We're almost

verging on "well-oiled machine" territory now for the Malvern Ball.

Thank you all very much indeed once again, it was a really superb night.

Regards

Mat

Chill Out Hire from Capability Events Ltd

2009-04-15T14:46:00.010+01:00

Here at Capability Events Ltd we are always on the look out for ways of getting our clients attention and actually getting them to book once we have quoted. I figured that you might be in the same boat.

Here I have put together a few sweeteners which will help you swing the deal in your favour.

Our soft furnishing packages are simple and easy to pitch to your client using our unbranded photos which I am happy to let you pinch and use to show your client. (as long as you come and book with us at some point in the future!)

Package 1 fits very well in the corner of a marquee and consists of:-

15 x Cube Bean Bags, Cream - Allow guests to sit on, not too soft.
4 x Giant Bean Bag Cushions, Cream - 1 x 1m each.
4 x Giant Bean Bags, Cream - Allow guests to sink further into the bag. Appox 1m x 1m x 700mm.
4 x Classic Low Sofa - Available in a variety of colours.
2 x Simple Low white tables.
12 x Simple soft cushions- Variety of colours

Total trade cost inducing delivery and set up:- £500.00 inc Vat (£434.78)
You can sell this package on for upwards of £800.00

Other packages are available just call 01684 833133 or email ben@capabilityevents.co.uk

Just another short sharp hopefully helpful nugget of information from Capability Events Ltd.

Here are the pictures you can use:- (please don't put them on your website, only in your emails to your clients or your paper proposals)

If you would like to be removed from our emailing list then we are sad to see you go but here is the unsubscribe link.

10 Tips before you send your CV to an Events Company.

2008-12-31T18:47:00.003Z

This is the contents of an email we send out to the hundreds of people who email us looking for work. Enjoy.

Thank you for your interest in my company.

At the moment we do not have any placements, internships, work experience or vacancies. However we do take people on, often for individual events if your skills match what we are looking for.

By now you will have realised that this is almost an automatic reply to your request as we get so many people email asking for experience or work.

Can I suggest the following if you intend to get into events. Some of these may apply to you some may not. This is general advice for anyone applying to event companies.

1. Take to time to read an event companies website and learn about them. If you do not know what they do they will not give you the time of day so spend 10 mins looking at their site.

2. For goodness sake check your spelling, syntax and grammar. Get someone else to read through your CV, Letter or email to check it is correct in every aspect. You would be amazed at the number of badly spelled emails we get.

3. Don't send Word docs. Save your document as PDF and send it through. Word Docs are terrible at cross compatibility, your time spent laying out your CV so it looks nice is wasted if my version is different from yours. Send PDF's

4. Always include a sensible, suitable for work, picture of yourself. We are human, we want someone who will represent the values and professionalism we wish to show to our clients.

5. Get a real world, non AOL, Hotmail or Yahoo email address. No one takes a email address such as Imapricess@hotmail.com seriously.

6. Clean up your public Facebook profile. Yes we do check you out on Google, Bebo and Facebook Etc.

7. If you have no experience, no one will take you on to organise or manage events, Period. So get experience. Get out there, organise events from charity parties or fun runs to volunteering to work at events for the council etc. And make sure you photo document what you have done. A blog is ideal for this.

8. Event companies really need Event sales people first and foremost because organising an event is easy. Selling the concept to a client is the hard part. So get some sales experience. We don't sit here with loads of event to plan, we have to go out and get clients to give us money to then organise their event. So sell sell sell. And document what you have done in your blog.

9. Everyone you meet in events from caterers to event organisers should be in your contacts book. Build your network.

10. Join our Capability Events Crew pages on Facebook and keep your ear to the ground. We advertise work on FB. http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17716112748

PS. Never give up, Never moan, Always smile, Never turn your phone off, Never be late, Be reliable. Good Luck.

10 Tips on how to start organising a fantastic event

2008-08-29T13:50:00.010+01:00

Here at Capability Events we get many enquiries from potential clients who are at the very start of organising an event. They know roughly what they want to do but all the details are a bit vague.

So we have produced a little 10 step list to guide clients in how to approach the start of their event.

Here it is:-

Before you call anyone to chat about your event it is best to try and decide these basics first so that your supplier can provide you with accurate and sensible advice and quotes. Decisions are key.

1. What do you want to do? You'd be amazed the number of clients who call with no idea what they actually want.

2. Decide on a date or a range of dates, without a date no supplier or venue can quote you or talk to you about their equipment or service availability.

3. Decide on a venue type. Marquee, field, lawn or hotel. Even if you don't have a venue to use yet try and decide on what type of venue would be your ideal.

4. How many people are you entertaining. It goes without saying that a party for 100 people is completely different from a party for 1000.

5. Whats the postcode of the venue. This is very useful for a supplier as it allows accurate location of the event and the ability to decide on the cost of transport. If you don't have a venue yet just saying I want to hold the event in Cheltenham is much better then nothing.

6. One person in charge. If you're the MD of your company by all means delegate the task of organising the event to an employee but make sure that employee feels they have scope of command and are allowed to make some decisions. It is very frustrating for a supplier to not be able to deal with the key decision maker as this makes quoting, and the inevitable following questions a very drawn out process for all involved. This is especially important if you are holding your event during peak seasonal times.

7. What is the purpose of the event? Are you celebrating, showcasing, selling or sharing something? These different event goals all require different handling in terms of your event production. It will effect the atmosphere of the event and what elements your suppliers recommend you have.

8. Try and have a good idea of what you want, even if its just the basic foundations of an event. Suppliers can drown you with ideas but you need to have a good starting point to get the ball rolling. Just saying "I would like to have a memorable party for my 40th" can be tough. However, saying " I would like to have a memorable themed party at home for 150 guests and all I know is I want food and fantastic fireworks" is much better as an initial opener. A decent supplier with good experience will be able to explain the practical pros and cons of different elements of your event to you so you can then make an informed decision about what will work for you and your guests.

9. Know your budget. This is one of the most important things to decide before talking seriously with a supplier such as ourselves. We can guide you, of course but ultimately you get what you pay for. If somebody offers to produce a dinner/dance marquee event for 400 guests for £15,000.00 then be very wary! Its a good idea to have a flexible budget so you can get quotes in on various options to allow you to make an informed decision. An experienced supplier will be able to tell you what is cost effective for your event within the realms of your budget. You will always find that by booking an event package from a single supplier you will always save money in comparison to booking individual elements from separate suppliers.

10. Enjoy yourself! Whether you're organising an corporate ball or a private party at home remember that event planning should be fun. A good supplier will let you be as involved as you want to be and will work with you to produce a very memorable event that hopefully you should get all the thanks for! Listen to their advice and experience and try and find something together that your guests will remember for weeks to come after your event.

Have fun, and last but not least; if your event is outside take wet weather insurance!!!

The Capability Events Team

Temporary Events Notices TEN's Does your event need one?

2008-08-25T15:52:00.006+01:00

TEN's or Temporary Events Notices are a pain in the neck for first time event organisers. This small article should help you to make a bit of headway in the vast sea of licencing that you may feel you are presented with by your local council, police, planning and fire department.

First of all let me state now that I am not a laywer or solicitior and my advice is based on years of practical experience in event licences both the old Public Entertainment Licences and the permission to sell alcohol as well as the new TEN's and premises licences. So don't take what I say as gospel. If you need to get proper legal advice then go to Popplestone Allen They are always very helpful and will often answer simple questions before you start getting into the chargeable section of their services.

So let me dismiss some myths that I constantly hear from clients when organising events.

1. You need a licence to give alcohol away for free. This is not true. If you are giving it away free you do not need a licence. However read on.

It depends how "free" the drink really is.

Without getting into legal arguments:-

If you have a free party and give the drinks away for free then no licence in required. Ie a Wedding, house party, birthday party or company party.

If you charged for tickets for the party then you would need a licence. The council would take the view that its is a profit making venture.

So if you are having a wedding or private party or even a public party and you decide to give away for free the drink over the bar then you do not need a licence. However you must be careful if you are charging for tickets. The act of selling a ticket for money and then giving away alchool could be seen by a keen council licencing office as you selling the drink within the ticket price. This is really only a problem for balls.

The key phrase in the licencing act is "retail sale" and this is what you must always consider. It does not always refer to the exchange of cash for a drink at a bar.

2. You do not need a TEN for a wedding unless you are either charging your guests for access to the wedding with the pre determined view of making a profit or charging for drink over the bar.

3. You do need a TEN for other licensable activities such as dancing, live music and catering within certain hours.

Do give us a call for friendly and quick advice!

Luxury mobile bathrooms

2008-08-25T14:53:00.005+01:00

A major component of any event that is often overlooked in the planning stages is the bathroom! One of the key five foundation questions to any event is "Where will guests go to the bathroom?"

We install mobile bathrooms at over 90% of all the events we produce. Often this is due to the sheer guests numbers, or the client does not want any guests in their house; but usually it is simply a fact that there are no bathrooms on site that are suitable.

Gone are the days of the single unit builders portaloo at which guests in expensive evening-wear queue outside, where its pitch black inside and it smells most un lady like. We only ever install self contained fully mobile units of varying sizes that have been specifically designed and built to the standards that our clients expect.

Each unit has a separate entrance for male and female and has full running hot and cold water. Each unit is brightly lit and tastefully decorated and it has its own air filtration system and automatic fragrance dispenser to ensure the unit is always fresh throughout the event. The steps have lights in them to guide guests once it is dark inside.

Bespoke toiletries and make up are available to both male and female guests and in the past we have even put professional make up artists and barbers to prepare the guests (alongside a glass of bubbly!) before the event starts.

In short, once you are inside it is just like being in the bathroom of a 4 or 5* luxury hotel.

The units are wheeled into place and secured with jacks, before being tailed into the event sites' power supply

Believe it or not, using the correct mobile bathroom unit can make or break an event from a guests perspective. " You get what you pay for" is a pertinent phrase in terms of toilets at an event! The right unit can be the cause of much excitement for young ladies at teenage parties, or a cheaper alternative can be a disaster at a private lunch party if it leaks or if it downgrades the whole atmosphere of a function.

Whatever your budget, please always remember that good mobile bathrooms are an essential part of any successful function. We have units of varying sizes and in different styles and only ever offer our luxury mobile bathroom services as part of one of our bespoke event packages.

For larger weekend parties we can also supply mobile shower and bathrooms for those discerning guests who want to stay for the weekend!!!

Private events in London garden

2008-07-28T15:50:00.008+01:00

One of our original '18th' birthday package clients (that spawned the MTV party and numerous press clippings and successful teenage parties since) asked us to create an event space in their garden for two events.

The first was to be an event for our clients' employees - a relaxed affair with Mediterranean food, live music and fine wine. The second event the following day was for close friends and family as the client used the same event space to celebrate their wedding anniversary.

We erected two separate marquees. The first was a main 30ft x 30 ft frame marquee over the clients garden. This housed one of our 12ft long bars and a variety of our new 'chill out' furniture to match the informal atmosphere the client requested. This included new giant leather bean bags, floor cushions,cubes, white sofas, low tables, morrocan furniture and shisha pipes. We up lit the main marquee in a gentle glow of up lighters and the surrounding trees and bushes were lit in a series of fairy lights.

The smaller 15ft x 10ft marquee was erected on the clients terrace and housed the professional chefs, preparing and cooking food in front of the guests. A luxury BBQ was enjoyed by all.

Fine wines, picked by our client from our local wine merchant were served and live musicians from 'Gypsy Fire' entertained guests and added the finishing touch to a very relaxing environment.

A red carpet entrance greeted guests at the door and one of our luxury 2:1 ratio mobile bathroom units was installed at the side of the house.

As always, great care was taken to ensure the clients house and gardens had minimum disruption whilst the event was being built.

A great time was had by all the guests at both functions and we look forward to running the clients Christmas party later this year.

Private 40th Birthday Party

2008-07-28T15:29:00.015+01:00

One of our favourite old clients was turning 40. His brief was simple:

"I want fun and mayhem. I want my mother to be shocked"

So with great gusto we got down to planning a fun informal party for our client at his family home he shares with his wife and young children.

Set around his pool area and tennis court, a stretch marquee was erected over his walled garden and various bars, furniture and entertainments were dotted around for the guests.

Welcomed by a red carpet entrance with 'fake' security guards and a cocktail guests were then led through a tunnel to the walled garden where Mediterranean musicians and food were waiting.

As the night moved on guests enjoyed a disco, a cream bun fight and a 40ft foam cannon alongside some 'life guards' and general mayhem.

We can't really divulge the true happenings of that fateful night, but suffice to say it was a real pleasure to be part of the special celebrations, and to be our clients sole supplier for his thrid event with us.

Malvern college ball 2008

2008-07-22T15:14:00.010+01:00

After providing only the bars, some lighting and event management services to the school last year, this year the prestigious college chose us to completely design and produce their end of year student and parent ball for 500 guests.

With guests flying from all over the world and real impact was needed at their entrance to the event space after their dinner in the separate school houses.

Two main marquees were erected; one to house a mobile night club area and main bar, and the other to hold one of our award winning cocktail bars, a chocolate fountain, a hog roast and some relaxed seating.

The main quad area was covered in red carpet and a tri lite tower was erected in the middle of this set piece; which stood in between the two marquees.

Gas flambeaux, contemporary leather stools and glass poseur tables were placed in the red carpet area for guests to enjoy the stunning view of the school which was dramatically lit by city-colours and flood lights.

Guests enjoyed a traditional jazz quartet, a mobile night club, a 7 piece live band, a fireworks display, bespoke cocktails and all in a beautiful setting.

All from one single supplier:Capability Events!

Despite some initial weather concerns the evening went very well and we are very pleased to have already been asked to produce next years' ball.

Private event for 150 guests at home

2008-07-22T14:17:00.009+01:00

Having treated himself to a brand new Audi R8 for his birthday, our private client wanted a relaxed garden party at home with family and friends to celebrate his 40th.

The brief was simple: to create a relaxing event space for children and adults alike with room for informal dining, a bar and a dance floor.

We installed a main 9m x 21m fully lined marquee. It was fully carpeted and had a selection of seating in for the guests. The bar was a blue down lit 12ft long cocktail bar with one of our bespoke fully mirrored back bars behind it. A professional cocktail flairer performed from behind the bar whilst our staff mingled with guests

The sides of the marquee were fully open to give a flowing event space into the clients garden for the afternoon. Furniture, games and even a bucking bronco were placed outside to keep children and 'young at heart' adults entertained!

Despite several torrential downpours, nothing put a dampener on the celebrations, complete with a presentation on our 60" plasma television from the clients son.

A fantastic luxury BBQ was available to guests throughout the day, prepared, cooked and served in front of them from a separate 5m x5m chinese hat marquee.

We also installed a chill out marquee in the far corner of the garden, next door to the giant jenga, giant connect 4 and table football. The 5m x 5m marquee was filled with our new leather giant bean bags, floor cushions and cubes which was quickly turned into a huge den by the children!

A traditional jazz quartet welcomed guests to the house, alongside our staff serving champagne. After food, a 7 piece live band played to rapturous applause. A great day was had by all and we look forward to our clients 50th!!

University of college London 2008

2008-07-22T14:11:00.004+01:00

The open evening for all architecture students marks UCL's second largest event in their academic year. With over 4,000 student and corporate guests, Capability Events was delighted to be asked to take care of the drinks for the evening.

A long standing client of ours, UCL are always a pleasure to deal with and once our 30ft long main bar was in place the evening went extremely well.

Our fast dispense draught system worked wonders, pouring a cool clean pint every 3 seconds and our staff served a full bar range selection including cocktails. We look forward to expanding somewhat next year, including a single cocktail station with professional flairers entertaining the guests.

Private Asian wedding Sudeley Castle

2008-07-21T15:38:00.003+01:00

This prestigious event for 500 guests marked the second largest wedding we had attended.
We installed a 6ft long reception bar for an outside reception followed by an 18ft long bar for the main bar inside.

Our premium bar services really came into action when we supplied table service to each table at the wedding meal. A full range, alongside personalised cocktails were on offer to all the guests for the duration of the day.

With relatively large guest numbers of 500+ it is paramount to ensure that re stocking, glass collection and rubbish removal are done effortlessly throughout the day, to not compromise on service to guests. This was aptly done, and through clear communication with all other suppliers, Capability Events ensured the day was a memorable one for all who attended.

Hyde Park Hard Rock Calling 2008

2008-07-21T15:00:00.008+01:00

For the third year in a row 'Hard Rock Cafe' used Capability Events for their bar unit requirements. As headline sponsors, 'Hard Rock' needed premium looking bar units to install into their VIP areas and the Hard Rock Cafe marquees.

In total we installed 29 x 1.8m front bar units and 25 x 1.8m back bar units.

We included some of our brand new completely folding bar units. Designed by us after many years of mobile bar experience, they maximise space for logistics whilst giving a client a fantastic practical bar unit once installed.

We look forward again to next year!

Plymouth University Dry hire bars

2008-07-21T13:20:00.005+01:00

Alongside some of our usual University clients, this year Plymouth University chose Capability Events to supply them with all their required bar units for their Summer ball.

We supplied three separate bars to the University, installed into three different areas of the function and each in a different style. As a dry hire, all access and positioning was organised prior to installation and our staff set up the bars with minimum fuss, leaving them all ready to be stocked and staffed by the University.

"Just a quick email to express how delighted I was with the bars you supplied to out Ball on Wednesday. They looked fantastic and gave our event the quality feel I was looking for. The service from your guys on the day was excellent and the equipment was fitted and removed very efficiently.

I will certainly look to use your services again next year."
Commercial Operations Manager
University of Plymouth Students' Union

Private birthday party 17th May 2008

2008-07-21T13:04:00.003+01:00

For this 150 guest private party we provided one of our premium bar services.
A 12 ft bar was installed in front of one of our bespoke fully mirrored back bars and guests enjoyed a full selection of drinks from the bar; including personalised cocktails! A great night was had by all and we are very grateful for such a lovely testimonial from the client. Although we were only providing the bar, great care was taken in the installation and removal of the bar to minimise disruption to the clients' house and gardens both prior and after the party.

A party at home, darling?!

2008-06-03T16:19:00.005+01:00

We've seen a dramatic increase in private parties at home. We've also noticed we are one of the only companies in the UK who do this as a sole supplier. We own everything that we install so you only ever have to deal with one supplier: Capability Events!

We have always produced events for clients at home, but it is especially in the last 12 months that we have seen a significant rise in clients preferring the comfort and security of their own property as a venue

Gone are the days of hiring out the local manor house or the nearest 5* hotel for a private event.

As people look more towards their own property as the perfect venue, we investigate the pros and cons of having complete control over your dream function at home.

Despite people thinking professionally organised events at home are only available to the super-rich; the average spend on a party for 150 guests at home is £15,000.00 - £18,000.00. This normally comprises of a red carpet entrance, marquee, catering, a free cocktail bar and entertainment. All you need is a reasonably sized garden with good access and a great sense of adventure!

Most people choose to open up their houses for anniversary or birthday celebrations, with the majority of people opting for a marquee over their garden.

We then have a blank canvas with which you can have complete artistic control and can decide exactly what happens in the marquee.

Our owner, Ben Leeke, says "The client only has one supplier which allows us to create their event with minimum fuss and disruption to their house and daily living. Clients are a lot more savvy about their options and the event industry as a whole, given that most of them attend multiple corporate functions each year. We know they are tired of the traditional black tie dinner and dance function, and with a party at home they are free to celebrate in whatever style and atmosphere they choose; allowing for a much more memorable event."

So what are the cons? Well, not everyone wants a team of installers and event managers disrupting your daily family routine. We know this, and our testimonials are proof of the fact that every precaution is taken to respect your private house and gardens. In many cases we often don't go near your house at all and just access the garden to install the marquee and all that is required to create your event space.

All of our staff from our installers to our event managers are professional event staff who have been trained to meet the highest standards that we know you expect. They are all polite, well presented people whom, we have hand picked. Many of them have been working with us for a few years. Our staff directly reflect our services to clients and their guests, and we ensure they they respect all aspects of your function, whilst helping to create a fun a welcoming atmosphere for your guests,

What this all means is that you can create a very personal event in the comfort of your own home. We're very open with all the different options that are available to you, but we do have some strict policies on under 18's functions. We do lots of them, but we ensure we work closely in tandem with parents and guardians to pacify any concerns with regards to alcohol and behavior.

So what happens if you want to hold a private function at home?

Just get in touch with us either via phone or email and we'll then have a quick informal chat with you to find out what you would like to do. We then look at the basic costings for the 'five golden rules of a successful event'. These are:

1. Where will guests go? (Eg. A marquee!)

2. What will they do? (Eg. Dance, mingle)

3. What will they drink

4. What will they eat

5. Where will they go for the bathroom?

These are the core 5 elements for an event. Once these are out of the way then the creative side can begin in terms of entertainment, lighting and theming. If you like the look of our initial ideas then we'll arrange a no obligation site visit at your convenience. We can then get a chance to meet you to discuss your event in detail. This also allows us to create an in depth quote together with a guests perspective for you to mull over.

We're not in the business of over selling big additions for your event. We're in the business of creating an event that you, your family and friends will love so much that they'll think of us when its time for an event of their own.

So please feel free to get in touch for a quick chat about your event. We are here to guide you in the right direction towards your dream function at home.

Please look at the event videos and private testimonials on our website to see how our clients see us!

We hope to talk with you soon.

The Capability Events Team

A Capability Catch up!

2008-06-03T15:34:00.008+01:00

Its been almost two months since our last blog. We were busy telling you then that this year is our biggest yet for enquiries. Well, we're now into our biggest event production season off the back of those enquires. The mobile bars are going well and we continue to offer the largest stock in the UK. On the 25th - 27th June all of our front bar section will be filling the Hyde Park festival as guests enjoy the music of The Police and Eric Clapton. We have also seen a huge increase in private event production at clients' own houses - please see our separate blog above for more details on this!

Here's what we've been up to since we last blogged:

- University college London dry hire of 27m of bar hire
- Plymouth University may ball
- Various private events for clients at home
- Dorothy Perkins multiple store cocktail party nationwide

And here is what those clients said about them:

A private joint celebration at a clients' home

"Hi Ben,
I just wanted to say how amazing you were on Saturday.Everyone thought you were so professional and also so pleasant to everyone.Thank you so much.Also the photos were great.I am so thrilled with them.
I shall recommend you to loads of friends and also to Goldman Sachs events team if you would like me to."
Plymouth University:

"Just a quick email to express how delighted I was with the bars you supplied to out Ball on Wednesday. They looked fantastic and gave our event the quality feel I was looking for. The service from your guys on the day was excellent and the equipment was fitted and removed very efficiently.

I will certainly look to use your services again next year."

Commercial Operations Manager
University of Plymouth Students' Union

Dorothy Perkins:

"Just a massive thank you for everything you did to make 'Girls Night' a huge success. Your efforts were greatly appreciated and we will definitely be in touch again."

And so with a smug look on our faces we embark on a crazy summer, with 0ver 30 events in the next three months across the UK.

Please watch this space for event briefs, summaries, photographs and videos.

The Capability Events Team - June 2nd 2008

Our New Promotional clip

2008-06-03T15:22:00.003+01:00

Please check out our latest promotional video that takes some of our favourite clips from events last year and up to March 2008.

Its proved very popular with old and new clients and has been received on our website very well.

With this summer shaping up to be our biggest summer yet, expect lots more of these event videos which we love creating. Suggestions for sound tracks please!!!

Recent Events inc The Boat Race

2008-04-07T16:00:00.004+01:00

The past two months have been our busiest enquiry months in our history and we have all been working towards what will be our largest summer yet. With new employees being sought and new bars being built we've just been too busy to write up all of the recent events. Here is just a taster of what we've been up to:

6th February 2008 - Corporate Hospitality at 5* Celtic Manor Resort

22nd February 2008 - Maxim Live 2008

8th March 2008 - Swingland UK

29th March 2008 - The Boat Race

5th April 2008 - 2 x private functions

We've got some very exiting functions upcoming, alongside some big household names so keep an eye for our latest videos, pictures and blog entries as the summer approaches us quickly!

Proseal 10th Anniversary Party

2008-02-13T12:34:00.014Z

In October 2007, Proseal approached us to discuss their upcoming 10th Anniversary in February 2008.
Our brief was to design an event at their modern offices and factory worksite in Adlington, Cheshire. They wanted to invite 300 employees and guests and create a relaxed and fun environment for them to enjoy. Aside from wanting BBQ style food and a free bar the client was not sure what else they required to give their guests a memorable time. After a couple of lengthy site meetings we advised on a number of entertainment options and the client decided on various fairground attractions both inside and outside.

Producing the event on a clients private grounds always entails executing a detailed production plan, allowing clients to keep working right up until the start of their event. The event plan space covered all of their main car parks, and suppliers had to been installed in order to maximise the set up space and time allowed to build.

Despite howling gales, bitter temperatures and snow the build went relatively smoothly. We erected two 12m x 24m frame marquees with a long entrance tunnel, before the large fairground rides and mobile toilet units were installed in place. The following 24 hours gave us plenty of time to install the smaller elements of the function, including a full mobile disco, an 18ft long main bar, bucking bronco, animatronic quick draw, furniture and a colour changing smoking/chill out area.
From 7pm on the 2/2/08 guests started to arrive. After a short walk beneath our bespoke tri lite entrance with flame cannons, they were greeted on the red carpet with a drink by our staff. Our award winning flairers provided fantastic bar interaction, mixing bespoke cocktails throughout the night. Guests were free to explore the event area, and they were soon enjoying all the attractions, despite the cold weather! Fresh BBQ food was served all night, alongside a pasta and salad bar. Bacon butties and coffee were served at midnight and all the party-goers were kept safe by our SIA registered security staff and FPOS medic.

It was a fantastic night, and after enjoying a live jive band the guests danced away until 2am. With personalised projections gobos shining both inside and out and city colours lighting the outside area some were still dancing as they walked home!

Dawn Malone, Office Manager, of Proseal said: “Everyone had a great time. The evening was absolutely wonderful and will be talked about for years to come. The only problem we have now is what to do for our Christmas party as nothing will top our tenth anniversary. The snow caused several pre-event jitters but any worries I had were dissolved as Capability Events executed the perfect event keeping all our guests warm despite the bitter February weather.”
As testament to this, guests partied well into the night leaving with huge smiles on their faces and continued to dance on their way home.

We thoroughly enjoyed Proseals' fresh approach to their employees and this function. We wish them all the best for the nest ten years and hope to see them again next year! (Without the snow!) Enjoy the video:

The Capability Events Team 2008

Press realease

CAPABLITY EVENTS CONDUCT THE CELEBRATIONS
FOR PROSEAL’S TENTH ANNIVERSARY

February 2008 marked the tenth anniversary of Proseal, a Cheshire based company, who are the leading manufacturer of heat sealing machinery and tooling in the UK. To commemorate this auspicious occasion the Directors of Proseal decided to have a relaxed informal party for their employees and guests, and called upon Capability Events to work their magic in delivering a truly memorable event. The brief was to conceive, produce and manage an informal event for 300 guests on site at Proseal’s manufacturing facility and despite the snowy weather this was achieved.

Capability Events utilised the car parks encompassing Proseal’s offices and factory, executing a detailed production plan, which allowed Proseal to continue operating while the party venue was being built. Capability Events designed and built a maze of marquees, which housed an eclectic mix of entertainment, including: a casino, bucking bronco, animatronics western shooting gallery and dancing to a live band and disco. Outside the entertainment continued with fairground dodgems, coconut shy and a shooting gallery.

Ben Leeke, Capability Events, commented: “To bring the whole event to life Proseal projection gobos shone both inside and out, while city colours illuminated the outdoor party area with an explosion of colour. To keep all the guests safe, behind the scenes our SIA registered security staff and FPOS medics were on hand if needed.”

Amid the fairground theme, guests were treated to a barbeque supper and breakfast at midnight plus a free bar throughout the evening, which also included entertainment for Proseal’s party goers in the form of Capability Events signature cocktail flairers who added a touch of spice to the proceedings.

In amongst the excitement of the evening a character photographer took photographs of guests throughout the evening, superimposing the images onto famous film posters providing a fabulous memento of the evening for all those attending.

Ben Leeke added: “Proseal has a great commitment to their team of employees and it was a pleasure to work with them in celebrating their tenth anniversary.”

Dawn Malone, Office Manager, of Proseal said: “Everyone had a great time. The evening was absolutely wonderful and will be talked about for years to come. The only problem we have now is what to do for our Christmas party as nothing will top our tenth anniversary. The snow caused several pre-event jitters but any worries I had were dissolved as Capability Events executed the perfect event keeping all our guests warm despite the bitter February weather.”
As testament to this, guests partied well into the night leaving with huge smiles on their faces and continued to dance on their way home.

RAF Innsworth Closure party 18/01/08

2008-01-22T10:56:00.002Z

Since 1940 RAF Innsworth has been the administration HQ for all of the Royal Airforce in the UK. It is a huge base and has been the training facility for aircraft fitters, technicians and by the end of the second world war over 5,000 personnel were living on the base.

In September last year the base approached us to discuss a function that was to mark the closure of the base. It was a great shame but the base wanted to have a 'stadium rock' style function and were determined to organise a great event to thank all their employees past and present.

The event was to be in a large 70m x 30m hangar, which was to be converted into a function space for 1,000 guests.

Our brief was to supply everything required to turn the hangar into a fantastic looking concert space, with a large bar,food stalls, toilets, giant stage and lighting rigs. This was a mammoth task as the hangar was just a shell.Our build started three days prior to the event date. As there were no secure rigging points in the hangar, our dedicated light and sound team had to install free standing rigs and light towers to give sufficient event lighting. A 30ft x 20ft stage was installed with a powerful 20kw PA system for the four bands and disco that the base wanted.

The bar was to be a cost price bar and we installed a 60ft run of front bar, down lit in red white and blue. A mobile chiller unit was placed behind the bar for refrigeration and 17 bar staff (including two of our flairers)were booked for the night. At the far end of the hangar was the food and seating area, serving BBQ foods, crepes and hog roast baps. The seating was themed in red, white and blue and gas fired heaters were professionally installed at all corners of the hangar.
As with any function of this size, but especially with military functions, health and safety is of paramount importance. Teams of carpenters were brought in to construct and install fitted fire exits in place of the huge shutter doors, and to drill holes in the walls to install the gas pipes for the heating and food elements of the event.

A small chinese hat marquee was erected just outside the hangar over looked by a tri lite hung with spot lights. This was to be the main entrance and two flame cannons guided guests across the base to the party space. They were greeted on the red carpet by professional door staff.

Four luxury mobile toilet units were maneuvered by the Capability Events into place at the stage end of the hangar and positioned to create a bathroom area behind the stage.

A complex logistical plan was executed perfectly, ensuring over 20 suppliers arrived in order for the production of the event.

The main stage saw 4 live bands, a disco and a compere and well over 1,000 guests danced on until 3am.Although hard work to produce within a limited budget we thoroughly enjoyed working with the RAF for this event and are happy it was such a resounding success.

Flight Lieutenant Paul Morgan, RAF organiser of the party comments: "It was a bittersweet evening, celebrating RAF Innsworth’s 60 year anniversary but saying goodbye at the same time. Although many of us will be posted to Air Command High Wycombe, which will take over RAF central administration, we will be leaving behind many of our civilian colleagues who have helped with the smooth running of the camp during out time here.Morgan adds: The party was a sell out, with 1000 RAF and civilian personnel attending. Capability Events were the consummate professionals and executed the event without any hitches. There is no doubt without them I would have even less hair!"

Enjoy the video of the event below!
The Capability Events Team 2008

Ledbury Hunt New Years Eve Ball

2008-01-03T15:46:00.003Z

For the second year running we helped organise and produce the Ledbury Hunt Ball. Called the Golden Button Ball the evening again proved to be a great success.

Earlier in the day on New Years Eve the Golden Button Challenge took place over prime Ledbury countryside. Here are some pictures from fence 7. Carnage takes place.

East Thames Christmas Party - 20/12/07

2007-12-21T14:37:00.001Z

In April this year the East Thames group approached us again and asked if we could replicate their successful Christmas party we worked on last year. Once again, it was to be held in the beautiful Stratford town hall.

Our brief was to provide bar and DJ services for up to 500 guests. Each guest had five free drinks tokens. after which they had to pay for their drinks. Food was supplied by the hall and the world famous Titch from 'Fantasia' was booked by us to play an eclectic array of music from around the world to ensure the diverse mix of guests had a great Christmas party.

We arrived in our 7.5 tonne lorry and used the service lift at the venue to move 7 sections of bar, lights, drinks and bar equipment up to the function room. We installed an 18ft long main bar down lit in red, that served a full range of drinks including draught. Opposite to this we installed a 12ft long cocktail bar down lit in blue. Both bars had back bars with our bespoke mirrored back bar attachments. The main bar had 5 staff members, whilst the cocktail bar saw Chris Withey performing as a cocktail flairer alongside our very own Lorcan Lynch.

A great time was had by all, and we look forward to working with the group again for Christmas 2008. Check out the video below!

BT Christmas Party 18/12/07

2007-12-19T13:38:00.000Z

Last night we ran a private party for the workers of BT global services on the 34th floor of the world famous BT tower in the heart of central London.

Access was suprisingly easy for central London and the client was most helpful in ensuring we had the correct access information and required parking spaces (a welcome alternative to most events in central London!)

We installed a 12ft cocktail bar down lit in blue, with our bespoke mirrored back bar attachment. A professional cocktail flairer entertained guests as they arrived at the party shortly after finishing work. We also installed a working ice luge onto our black marble bar top, allowing clients to try some Christmas shots in a unique way.

3 of our young and eleqount staff served guests a free drinks from a full bar range including tailor made cocktails. We really enjoyed this event. not only for its fantastic views across London, but also for the lovely comments from guests and appreciation of our quick set up time. We wish everyone at the BT Tower a Merry Christmas and we look forward to working with them again n 2008

6 EVENTS OVER 4 DAYS - IN THE FESTIVE SPIRIT!

2007-12-19T12:03:00.001Z

Last week saw our busiest run of festive events, both in the corporate and private party sectors.
The 11th of December saw us working for Georgio Armani at their flagship store on Regents Street in London. Full of celebrities and press the event saw our bespoke mirrored bar fronts being installed to make the most of the event sponsor brands 'Grey Goose'. Armani hired an 18ft front bar from us, and despite a difficult install the event was a huge success.

The following day we ran a private office party for 100 guests for a prominent London agency.
We ran one of our hugely popular free cocktail bars, with tailor made cocktails for the evening, alongside our normal full bar range. We have noticed a good increase in the amount of corporate clients who choose to have their Christmas party in their office. It means no venue fee and complete control over their function. However, this also means we have to ensure that the day to day running of their office is not affected by our event set up, but that the bar is ready and open for guests shortly after they finish work. With this in mind we've got our set up time down to under one hour and guests enjoyed a basement party full of dancing and debauchery!
On the 13th December we had a last minute dry hire for another London agency. They required
two separate back bars, each with built in glass fronted fridges and our bespoke mirrored back bar attachments. We worked late into the night on the 12th in our workshop giving the back bars a respray and delivered them into central London on the morning of the 13th.

On Friday 14th December we organised and produced a party for 100 guests in a private residence just outside London. The event was to celebrate Christmas as well as our clients 25th wedding anniversary. The brief was to provide a fun and informal atmosphere, alongside our standard premium services. We installed a fully heated 12m x 9m frame marquee into the clients garden with easy access for guests though the house. The marquee had one of our bespoke cocktail bars installed, a black and white dance floor, some LED lights, a PA system and our relaxing stylish white leather furniture. Outside the house we rigged our powerful coloured flood lights to give some architectural lighting.

Guests were greeted at the front door with a glass of champagne before enjoying first class catering and bespoke cocktails. As always, we ensured minimum disruption to our clients house and gardens.

The next day saw a very grateful client full of praise for a very successful party! We look forward to working again with them in summer 2008.

On Saturday 15th December we travelled to Kent for another private party for 120 guests.

Set in a historic old barn we had to work hard to ensure guests were kept warm throghout the function. However, it was a beautiful atmosphere and after installing our 'i' colour lights, a PA system and one of our bespoke 12 ft cocktail bars everyone enjoyed themselves.

That night we also ran a pay bar for 250 guests at our local rugby club. We did this as a favour for the club that many of us at Capability Events play for. Since the floods in July 2007 the club lost its club house and held this Christmas party in a nearby hall to try and raise some much needed funds. The night was a huge success.

Scouting For Girls Play MTV Super Sweet UK 18th Birthday Party

2007-11-28T15:23:00.007Z

In a carbon copy of the extremely successful ' My Super Sweet Sixteen'series on MTV in the States, filming for the UK series has been going on now for a few years.

Boys and girls between the ages of 16 and 18 are filmed in the planning, preparation and production of their dream birthday party.

We were approached by a private client who was organising a 18th birthday party for her daughter. It was due to be filmed by MTV. Luckily we had already been in touch with the production department at MTV for several months, as they wanted to film some of our other young adults functions. Unfortunately those clients didn't wish to be filmed - until now!

Our client for this function had already booked her marquee, power, sound and lighting and some theming. When she asked us to be the event organisers we reluctantly turned it down, as we would not have control over these keys elements to her funtion. Therefore, if anything went wrong with these we would be responsible and this would appear to be our fault - especially when filmed!

We agreed to be the event co - ordinators, ensuring that suppliers worked together to create an unforgettable function for the client. On the event night we organised the layout of the marquee, controlled the entrance to the event and liased with MTV for all their filming requirements. We installed a 12ft long cocktail bar and our bespoke mirrored back bar.

With three good looking bar staff, including an award winning flairer from London, the bar had an immediate affect on the guests, ensuring it was busy all night.

We also provided a fire juggler to add to the excitement to the entrance as guests waited for the birthday girl to arrive in costume on a themed horse!

With 4 main camera crews capturing every aspect of the function, a dance troupe, a town crier, an ice luge, a chocolate fountain and a surprise gig from 'Scouting for girls' the party was enjoyed by 200 young adults.

AXA Awards Ceremony 21st November 2007

2007-11-28T14:23:00.001Z

This prestigious event was held at the Sheraton Hotel Park Lane in London and was an evening of corporate awards. A pay bar was provided by the hotel. We installed a 12ft front bar with a 6ft back and as soon as the awards had finished a curtain was drawn to reveal our fully lit and stocked cocktail bar. Our two top cocktail Flairers, Chris and Magic performed a short flairing routine to guests before commencing a free cocktail service for two hours.

Despite terrible access to the venue, the event went well with guests enjoying the expertise of our cocktail staff together with freshly made bespoke cocktails.

Please view the video below for footage of our staff and bar at the event:

21st Birthday Party - 17th November 2007

2007-11-28T13:36:00.000Z

This was a private party for 120 guests held in a private residence.

Capability Events provided a premium 'free bar' service including welcome drinks and personalised cocktails. We installed two of our bespoke bar sections giving a 12ft front bar, along with a 6ft back bar.

The bar ran from 7pm until Midnight and served a full range of drinks.

This was originally a dry hire function, with the client then choosing to hire four staff from us to comprehensively manage the bar and tend to all of her guests needs. Her email the following day stands testament to our customer service:

"Thank you for your services at the party you were fantastic really helped to make it a terrific evening. Lots of compilments about you ,your staff and the bar itself. Will certainly be recommending you and hopefully you will get more business through this"

The Showmans Show 2007

2007-11-06T12:41:00.002Z

This year saw our first time of exhibiting at the world famous Showmans Show at the Newbury Showground on October the 17th and 18th of October.

As a company, we have been to this show every year since we started the business. Despite going to several exhibitions and shows throughout each season the Showmans show is the most relevant and useful for trade to trade business in the outside events market. For us it sets the industry standard and allows us to meet and chat to potential trade clients and see how our competition!

We plumped for a 12m x 12m stand size and erected 40 ft x 40 ft marquee into which we displayed our various mobile bars. Our idea was simple: to completely blackout the marquee so visitors to the show can see our services in situ; exactly how they would look if they booked them for their event. We had never seen this before at a show but it is very important to note that potential customers need to see products in their realistic event environment, as opposed to broad daylight! Although this decision would mean a much higher production cost for the stand, we felt it was the only way to realistically showcase what Capability Events was all about.

We installed 6 units of our standard bar sections. This gave us a 36 ft long bar down lit in various colours with temporary vinyl stickering across the two center sections. Behind this long run we installed two of our bespoke mirrored back bars. In between these back bars we erected a 6ft x 8ft projection screen to show some of our most recent event photographs and videos.

We then installed 12ft of our new remote controlled LED down lit bar in the left corner. This was to be our main service bar and we had our award winning flairer Chris working alongside a walking encyclopedia of mixology, Tim who created free cocktails for visitors. This bar had one of our bespoke mirror back bars. We also served free draught products.

Opposite our LED bar we installed a 12ft fully mirrored bar. This is one of our most popular bars, taking our traditional bar frame and cladding it in 'true mirror' acrylic; giving it the finest mirror possible within health and safety remits. Once again, this had one of our bespoke mirror back bars behind it.

The whole room was blackout, with LED star cloth covering the ceiling and all walls. A length of truss was erected, running centrally along the marquee, from which lights and custom made projection gobos shone.

The atmosphere was finished off with some light back ground music.

Guests were encouraged to enjoy a free drink, or sit on our white leather event furniture and chat to one of our three event managers who were there over both days.

Overall we had over 500 visitors to our stand with 48 solid enquiries, meaning the show was very worthwhile for us. We also had a chance to have a look around the show.

Why do caterers who are there to showcase their services insist on charging premium prices for their products? Surely they should be giving some out for free to entice new business from the trade visitors. After all, the Showman's Show is predominantly trade to trade and they are there to generate new business! We were appalled at being charged £4.00 for a hog roast roll with no crackling or apple sauce! Suffice to say we won't ever use that company!

We gave all our drinks away for free from our stand in an effort to show customers the different kind of services they can have at their events.

In summary. we enjoyed our experience of our first exhibition. We are grateful to all who came and visited us, and special thanks for all the great press coverage and pictures!

See you next year!

Croome Court Summer Ball - Corporate Event for 250 Guests

2007-10-09T13:56:00.004+01:00

This is a fantastic corporate event package for 250 guests, where the old tradition of a three course sit down meal and a disco at a local hotel is definitely not on the agenda!!

Our search for the requested 'Country House' venue was nationwide, until we found a privately owned property in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside. With its own river, stunning views across the nearby hills and ideal location near to the M5 this was to be our event site.

After sourcing a 5* hotel in nearby Birmingham for the guests accomodation we set about creating a memorable summer ball at the venue.

After a champagne reception at their hotel, guests were coached to the venue. After driving along the sweeping private roads of the country estate, and through Capability Brown designed gardens they arrived at the magnificent Croome court.

Greeted with another glass of bubbly guests could then wander through the huge house before coming to the double doors at rear of the property, that opened up into their party site.

Before them lay a fairground complete with dodgems and a giant ferris wheel, giving rides allowing guests to see over the whole country house and estate. We also had a hot air balloon giving guests breath taking flights over the whole venue.

The main marquee lay at the steps of the giant stone steps leading down from the back of the court. White picket fencing and a red carpet entrance enticed guests in to take their seats for a full three course meal.

After the meal an interactive quiz was held,with guests jumping up and down and rolling about in laughter as spoofs of classic TV quiz shows were played with the guests.

One of our bespoke cocktail bars was positioned in the corner of the marquee, with flairing cocktail staff serving from a list of themed cocktails. Guests could also visit the casino room attached to the side of the main marquee.

At 10.30 pm, after a good meal, entertainment, the fairground, casino and hot air balloon guests were treated to a cat 4 professional firework display.

They were then ushered back inside the marquee for a live 7 piece boogie band on stage.

From 11pm - 2am rolling coaches meant that guests could return to their 5* hotel whenever they wanted to, allowing older guests to leave earlier then the more rowdy young guests who danced all the way until 2am!

We had so many lovely comments about this, and as it was a surprise for its guests 100 of them did not show up as they thought it would be the same old traditional office party! We hope next year they will have learned their lesson and will come and enjoy a evening of absolute luxury and entertainment, set in the decadent surroundings of Croome Court. Please look at the video below.

Video of an 18th Birthday party

2007-09-18T17:06:00.000+01:00

Taking a small garden in a private house and turning it into a full nightclub with award winning flairing cocktail staff and a chill out room.

Russian Spectacular - Mongolia Rally

2007-09-06T19:34:00.000+01:00

Capability Events are proud to have been involved in the launch party and rally start for the Mongolia Rally 2007. 200 teams bought a car each for less than £100 and drove them all the way to Mongolia..... for fun!

Working closely with the organisers of the rally we designed a launch party in the Truman Brewery in central London. Taking an old industrial brewing complex we added a large bar, Russian themed lighting and a large sound and lighting set up for the Dj and band.

Providing bulk dispense and bulk cocktails for the 1000 guests the venue rocked as the 200 teams and their hangers on realised that departure was the next day and they were really, actually, defiantly leaving for an overland trip to Mongolia in the sorts of cars you give to a 17 year old who's just passed their test!

The next morning bright and early we installed and stage, advertising banners and a public address system over 200m wide in Hyde Park to provide some sort of order over the teams before they drove off into the sunset.

All in all this was a very successful and exciting event to be involved with. We also managed to make a donation to the Mongolia Rally organisation from the successful pay bar.

Prince of Wales Polo

2007-06-18T16:17:00.002+01:00

Capability Events were brought in three days before this prestigious sporting event to manage and optimize the numerous bars.

This event was a private lunch in a marquee, an afternoon match of Polo, followed by a private evening party.

The Royal County of Berkshire Polo club is a private venue that has recently started to open its gates for private functions. It is ideally situated a stones throw from London and was voted one of England’s most beautiful settings by Harpers and Queen.

For us this was a 24 hour build, arriving on site on the morning of the 15th and building until 10pm that night.

The main marquee housed tables for 300 guests, a 9m main bar. stage and dance floor. It was pitched parallel to the Polo pitch and had perspex sides to ensure that guests could still watch the sport in case of foul weather.

There was also a VIP bar area attached to the main bar, with star cloth ceiling and budda bags. Outside saw an array of marquees with an outside bar, outside catering, furniture, equestrian art and even a Hustler power boat with over 880BHP.

We arrived on site at 7am on the morning of the event, and put the finishing touches to the event ready for guests arrival at 11am.

Shortly after 11am saw a torrential thunderstorm that blew away the outside bar marquee, and despite our best efforts to hold it in place we had to let it go due to the lightening. The marquee company arrived shortly after wards to re erect the marquee.

Fortunately after the private lunch summer arrived at the club and guests were treated to some world class polo in beautiful sunshine.

In the early evening more guests arrived for the private party, with celebrity DJ's. The bars operated until 2am.

We fulfilled our brief of managing the three bars and staff, as well as advising and helping on staffing, marquees and power distribution.

As a new venue for clients the Royal County of Berkshire polo club was very impressive and we look forward to working there again and recommending it to existing and potential clients

Wedding Bar

2007-06-18T15:49:00.001+01:00

With arrivals by helicopters, drag acts, dazzling fireworks, naked men and goldfish on tables this was a wedding out of the ordinairy!

This was a celebration of a civil partnership, based in Ormskirk, Lancashire. Our brief was to provide an 18ft long bar with one of our bespoke back bars.

Originally this was to be a pay bar, serving 200 guests. However, upon our arrival we found that the client had decided it was to be a free bar. After negotiaiting the difficult access due to the helicopter landing zone we managed to set up with an hour to spare in the sweltering heat.

The event was in the clients private grounds and as always, every effort was made to ensure their private life and home were not disturbed too much.

As guests arrived we served them with a recpetion drink of Kia Royale, helped out by our two naked butlers - much to the surprise of some guests and delights of others!

We then served a full free bar, including personalised cocktails to the wedding party. Cocktails were served by one of our flairing barmen and we also ensured our draught system kept up with the weather and poured ice cold pints for guests.

After a buffet, some great entertainments and the fireworks we served through until 1am, even helping to pacify the police when they turned up to ask us to turn the music down a touch!

BT chooses Capability for Gala Dinner

2007-06-08T10:11:00.000+01:00

Thursday saw BT host a large conference at the NEC, which was followed by a lavish gala dinner. One of the NEC halls was transformed into a blacked out party room, complete with dancefloor and live music, while other rooms boasted a casino and private bar. BT chose Capability to provide 3 mobile bars for the evening; two bespoke marble topped 3.6m bars with 1.8m mirrored back bar and one 5.4m diameter down-lit round bar. The fantastic down-lit, bespoke bars added to the ambiance of the evening and both BT and ourselves were more than happy with the final result.

HARD ROCK CAFE CHOOSES CAPABILITY EVENTS AGAIN

2007-05-31T16:24:00.001+01:00

After being impressed by our bars last year, 'Hard Rock Cafe' have again chosen Capability Events to supply large mobile bars for their Hyde Park concert this year where Peter Gabriel will play live to thousands of guests.

We are very pleased to once again be working alongside such a big company. We will be providing the following:

- A 10m x 4.6m rectangular bar for their VIP area.

- A 7.5m x 4.5m 'C' shaped bar for the public central area.

- 3 x 5.4m straight bars for the public area.

- Merchandise stands

- Bar optimisation and consultancy.

- On site transformation of bar fronts.

We look forward to installing this set up in two weeks time. We'll post a debrief of the event here.

CAPABILITY EVENTS TO PRODUCE REVOLUTIONARY LED BAR!

2007-05-31T15:45:00.001+01:00

We are extremely excited to announce that we will soon be launching a brand new concept in LED light mobile bars.
Using the latest in remote LED technology the bars will be capable of amazing guests and transforming spaces at the touch of a button.

Please watch this space.

SUMMER 2007 - The events market will never be the same

Kent University uses Capability Events for the third year

2007-05-31T15:18:00.001+01:00

Every year Kent University holds a Freshers and Summer ball and for the past three years Capability Events have been chosen to supply their large mobile bars to each function.

In particular Kent University's summer ball is known for being one of the biggest and the best balls in the UK University events calender.

This year was no exception, and last Saturday over 6000 students danced the night away in three large marquees, with various stages and numerous well known musical acts.

To cope with these sort of guest numbers Kent University consistently chooses Capability Events' mobile bars for their practical design, sturdiness and appearance.

Our brief this year was to provide the biggest bars yet; three seperate bars stretching the length of the three main marquees, totalling over 204ft of bar front alone. We used 34 of our 6ft modular bar units, each with black marble tops, glossy down lit white fronts and two shelves for stock. These were then put together on site to create the desired lengths.

We are constantly thinking about the design of our bars to ensure their praticality in any event situation does not dimish their finished look. When we re built our bars last year we chose a bespoke metal frame specifically designed to withstand immense stock weight, the elements and guest numbers.

The materials used to then clad these frames to create the finished product are the result of over five years of development. Not only do they create the right look of the bars, but they compliment the units' sturdy build and bulk dispense ability. With a large scale student event these wipeable and glossy materials also ensure spillages and general event mess can easily be removed, ensuring the bars are kept looking their best throughout the night. This also means we don't have to replace the bar tops and fronts so often, meaning cheaper installation costs for Universities.

The bespoke manufactured stainless steel down light housing was designed to allow all of our bar units to be down lit, without the risk of fragile lights being damaged by guests leaning on the bar. This ensures a clean run of illumination along any long front length of our bars - creating a real impact upon guests when they arrive. Gels can also be changed quickly on site, allowing clients to choose colour changes for different period of their events.

We are especially pleased that Kent University were impressed with our bars, both in apperance and bulk dispense abilities. We look forward to their next Freshers function when hopfully we can persuade them to have our new LED bars for the real wow factor!

James Moseley 40th

2007-04-19T14:15:00.001+01:00

New additions to the webite and new services

2007-04-06T17:39:00.000+01:00

I have spent all day updating the website. This is a gruelling task which we do from our macs running Dreamweaver. This does help massively but it's still a long task.

As we strive to be the best bar an event provider on the web we have to keep up to date with web site optimisation. Luckily like every other website in the UK we are called at least 5 times a day by people trying to flog us the snake oil that is their web site optimisation tools. Anyway we always turn them down as almost all know nothing about websites once you ask a simple question like how are you going to reduce my ad words spend.

I digress with that little rant.

What has become clear to me is that we are developing as a company as we grow each month. We have more new products an services which aren't on the website. I intend to add the following pages. Testimonials, Lighting design, Architectural lighting, Professional sound and lighting, History and How to pages. We are also developing a portable dispense product. This will enable us to supply all the weddings we turn down as they are too small for us. We will be able to help them now rather than disappointing all those brides!

Military Functions

2007-04-03T11:26:00.001+01:00

Historically we have worked with the Army, RAF and Royal Navy at a variety of MOD sites around the UK. Whether it has been a Officers mess ball or a less formal party to celebrate passing out, we have supplied staff and bespoke bars to ensure a great night is had by all military personnel.

There are a number of differences between military functions and civilan functions. One of those is that a bar on MOD land does not require a license to sell drink. Military personnel are also used to paying a lot less at their mess bars than on civvy street as military bars are not run for profit. For more formal functions we appreciate that there is a lot of history and tradition that must be respected and upheld.

We appreciate and understand all these differences, and with two of our key staff being ex Army officers we know how to approach any military function.

This summer we are running a number of bars for the 1st Battallion Irish Guards.

It will be a free bar at their summer ball. We will be running a free bar serving all our normal drinks, including our new draught system. We will also be installing a cocktail bar, and creating a tailor made cocktail list using the regiments' logo and history.

University Ball Visit

2007-03-22T15:44:00.001Z

Yesterday saw our first site visit for the Winter University Ball season at a college at Oxford University.

It is a winter ball for 1,000 guests, spread over a number of lawned quads within the hallowed walls of the colleges' very old buildings.

As with every site visit, we met with the chair of the ball committee and walked the event through eyes of guests, before sitting in the JCR to chat through potential ideas, problems and budgets.

One of the benefits of using Capability Events for a University ball is that the client only has us as a single contact, rather then 10 - 15 different suppliers. We also manage the build of the event, the event and the break down, to enable the ball committee to enjoy a hassle free function.

However, we also appreciate that committees need to experience the 'rite of passage' that organising a successful ball involves. We offer as much or as little help, advice and guidance as required. Suffice to say we step in when we feel its needed!

After the initial chat with the committee, we walked around the site again talking measurements and photographs to allow us to create a tailor made ball package for the college.

We are now in the midst of doing just that and we look forward to presenting our quote next week.

We are always very conscious of the wishes of not just the students at a college but also the administration and the rest of the faculty. It is usually a fine line between pleasing both parties!

Over several years, we have honed our skills with faculties and can happily liaise between them, the council and the students covering matters such as licensing, electricity and health & safety!

This year we've created a more economical and safe way of illuminating the archways, buildings and quads outside college buildings. With less power being used, less wiring and more choice in colours we are confident that next season most of the University balls will be using our new method.

Watch this space!

Boxing Event

2007-03-22T15:24:00.002Z

We are pleased to announce that the boxing event went extremely well and the bulk dispense equipment as described in my last blog worked a treat. The client was very happy - it was just a shame that as the main fight finished much earlier then expected the guests left an hour and a half earlier!

As a note, we used our new LED lights to light the marquee walls at the back of the VIP bar. You can see from the attached pictures how effective this was

Boxing the night away!

2007-03-13T09:44:00.001Z

This weekend we are providing large bars and bulk service for a championship boxing match in Norfolk.

The client wants to maximise the bar take on this International televised event and wanted our advice and expertise on how to achieve this, without spending vast amounts of money.

The event will see over 3,000 beer hungry boxing fans sitting in an arena, with an attached marquee for the bar and food area.

We are setting up a 42 ft long main bar, with three separate draught systems, to ensure steady flow of draught products. We will be using our American draught systems, which involve running the draught products through ice and water to instantly cool it. This is preferable to the traditional cooler method which takes over two hours to become useable.Time is money in the mobile bar business! (This method also requires no power, so can be used anywhere)

We will be installing 6 chrome beer heads, each with three taps, to enable 18 pints to be poured at once on the main bar.

We will also be installing a seperate 18 ft long VIP bar, with red downlights and fully mirrored back bar. This will have its own draught system with two chrome heads. (6 x taps)

We did look briefly at supplying multiple and bulk dispense units. However, the number of guests attending this event did not warrant the cost of hiring these units, which are normally used for events of over 5,000 guests. This also meant that we were in keeping with maximising bar profits.

We will be using our new lorry to transport the 10 seperate 6 ft bar sections, back bar section and all the draught kit to the event. The bars will then be constructed on site to form the two lengths of 42 ft and 18 ft. This is a relatively quick job as the bar sections roll off the tail lift of our new lorry and straight into position in the marquee.

We will then spend some time installing new pipe work into the bars. The bar tops have holes cut in them so the beer heads can be screwed straight in. The pipework is then run behind the bar front, through small holes cut into the top bar shelf, and then into the cooling coils and tubs placed on the bottom shelf of the bar. The pipes then run to a flight case, which is how we house all our gas boards. The flight cases are also used to transport the chrome draught heads. This ensures the client also recieves a pint out of smart chrome heads, going into marble effect topped bars - giving the illusion of a static bar.

We will be on hand for the duration of the event to ensure the draught system is running smoothly, and guests don't have to wait too long for a cold pint - meaning they are kept happy and so is the client.

We are also supplying boxes of metal pourers, measurers and a variety of other bar and display equipment to ensure the bar not only looks smart, but bar staff have the correct equipment to serve guests.

This will be our first large bar of 2007, with new kit, new beer heads and a new lorry. We are looking forward to putting all this new kit through its paces, and hope it makes our jobs easier. We will let you know next Monday!

Ben W