A 200-person reception with aerialists, a speakeasy lounge, and a second line parade—planned and executed in under 4 weeks.
The Ask
Westcor, a Colorado-based client, was in town for a major title insurance conference and wanted to host a 200-person cocktail reception. They needed something that felt unmistakably New Orleans—polished enough for VIPs but large enough to include industry peers. The kicker? They also wanted to tie in a local nonprofit to raise funds and awareness during the event.
The Challenge
They had limited local knowledge, a tight schedule, and a dual-purpose event brief: make it feel bespoke for their VIPs and open enough to draw the wider conference crowd. They also needed help infusing the night with culture, movement, and energy—without it feeling corporate or canned.
The Execution
- Distinctly New Orleans experience: We suggested a second line parade from the Hilton (conference HQ) to the venue, complete with a brass band, police escort, and a Hurricane cocktail station at the start.
- Venue strategy: After presenting multiple options, we steered the client toward The Orpheum for its grandeur—and its hidden basement speakeasy, which we reserved for VIP guests.
- Entertainment layering: Live jazz from Wendell Brunious, aerialists in the theater hall, surprise drumline with guest interaction, and swing band + pro dancers in the speakeasy.
- Costume styling: We sourced elevated, playful pieces for the Westcor leadership team to set the tone from the start.
- Charity tie-in: We introduced Uncommon Construction, a nonprofit that teaches construction trades to local high schoolers, as the ideal fundraising partner.
The Outcome
- The speakeasy was such a hit, the client opened it to all guests mid-event
- Guests stayed longer than expected, and the event was extended for a fourth hour
- The blend of elegance, authenticity, and surprise kept the energy—and conversations—flowing all night
Why it matters
When you’re hosting in New Orleans, don’t just book a venue—build an experience from the street to the speakeasy.