What Were Producing

Global Mentorship Camp by Hanwha Life

Global Mentorship Camp by Hanwha Life

San Francisco, CA

August 2024

Hanwha Life is a leading life insurance company in South Korea that is pioneering the global financial market by expanding their business to markets in the U.S. and internationally. Empire worked closely with Hanwha Life on one of their projects to collaborate with global professionals and build a network of global talent. 

The event was called Global Mentorship Camp 2024 by Hanwha Life—an intimate four-day conference and retreat that took place at over 10 locations in San Francisco and Napa Valley. Through an application process, they invited over 30 attendees that consisted of active emerging managers in venture capital and students aspiring to be future finance leaders. Attendees participated in insightful keynote sessions, received invaluable mentorship, and built connections through various workshops, activities, and dinners.

In San Francisco, the main conference was held at the Battery, a prominent member’s-only club, where special keynotes and conversations were presented by five industry leaders who covered a wide range of topics including venture capital, investing, neuroscience and AI, and building communities. Private dinners took place at the Four Seasons and the Conservatory at One Sansome. On the third day, attendees traveled to a resort in Napa Valley where more workshops and lectures were held. The attendees bonded through activities such as golfing and wine tasting, followed by an exclusive dinner at a winery on the final evening.

Empire provided overall project management; production conceptualization, design, and execution; program development; and guest logistics. Empire is proud to work with corporations from around the world, delivering intimate and curated experiences to specialized professionals and high net worth individuals.

Gavin DeGraw Performs in Nashville

Gavin DeGraw Performs in Nashville

Nashville, TN

August 2024

Empire brought together approximately 2,000 corporate client employees at the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, for an evening of music with Grammy Award-winning artist Gavin DeGraw. The client desired a fun, accessible artist who could really get the crowd from all around the country up and on their feet, and Gavin DeGraw delivered.

Starting with a meet-&-greet for 25 incentive winners and a private reception with C-suite executives, DeGraw demonstrated a mastery of conversation and conviviality. Culminating in a concert featuring well over 90 minutes of hits, a selection of covers, and punctuated by DeGraw’s amusing anecdotes, the crowd left their seats behind to get right up to the stage.

Working closely with the client team, Empire delivered more than just talent—from logistics coordination and security procedures to production and stage management, all to ensure a smooth event for our client.

adidas Golf CODECHAOS 25 Launch

adidas Golf CODECHAOS 25 Launch

Tokyo, Japan

July 2024

To celebrate the launch of adidas’ avant-garde CODECHAOS 25 golf shoe, we crafted a three-day experience rooted in innovation and design. Guests from across Asia Pacific explored the shoe’s cutting-edge features through immersive tech moments—from hacked simulators to projection-mapped product storytelling—at the transformed CODECHAOS Lab inside Kaigan Studio. Special appearances by Paula Creamer, Aguri Iwasaki, and Gareth Bale (via livestream) elevated a launch that felt as bold and performance-driven as the shoe itself.

The event embodied adidas’ bold vision for the future of golf footwear, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. We are proud to have supported adidas in delivering this benchmark event series.

To see more, view the event recap video here.

Travel + Leisure “World’s Best Summit”

Travel + Leisure “World’s Best Summit”

New York City

July 2024

Billed as the premier event for all things hospitality, the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Summit brought together the brightest minds in travel, hotels, luxury experiences, and dining for two days of dynamic conversation and industry-defining insights. And who better to bring this visionary event to life than Empire? As the production partner behind the summit, we transformed Dotdash Meredith’s headquarters into a high-impact stage for thought leadership, storytelling, and connection—delivering a seamless, immersive experience worthy of the World’s Best name.

To reflect the evolving landscape of travel, a simple theater was reimagined as a dynamic forum, welcoming over 300 attendees. Discussions tackled everything from sustainability and family travel to the future of air travel, the power of cultural events, and how AI and social media are reshaping the industry.

The summit kicked off with a fireside chat between T+L Editor-in-Chief Jacqui Gifford and Dotdash Meredith CEO Neil Vogel, setting the stage for thought-provoking discussions featuring panelists like Amanda Kloots (The Talk), Andy Krantz (CEO, Paravel), Paul Tumpowsky (Founder, New Yonder), and Christine Vinesse Thomas (VP, Global Brand Leader, Hyatt). Day one concluded with a vibrant cocktail reception, where we transformed the space with bold, branded visuals that brought the World’s Best Summit identity to life.

Day two kept the momentum going with panels on delivering unparalleled guest experiences, the growing importance of wellness, and the influence of social media on modern travel. Featured panelists included renowned chef and restaurateur, Daniel Boulud, and Jack Ezon (Founder and CEO, Embark Beyond), who shared their expertise on crafting exceptional hospitality experiences. The program wrapped up with an engaging and often humorous conversation between Jacqui Gifford and Bobbi Brown, who discussed her journey from cosmetics mogul to boutique hotel owner.

The summit was a true celebration of the industry’s future and was a resounding success, with attendees praising the experience as “thoughtful and special” and recognizing the T+L team for their “warm hospitality and expert planning.” We’re proud to have played a role in bringing this extraordinary gathering to life.

Empire Delivers A.J. Croce for a Private Event In California

Empire Delivers A.J. Croce for a Private Event In California

San Diego, CA

June 2024

Empire delivered Nashville Legend, A.J. Croce and band for a private, surprise birthday party.

The event took place at The Crosby Club in Rancho Bernardo, San Diego, an exclusive members-only venue overlooking The Crosby Club Golf Course designed by world-renowned golf course architect Brian Curley and one of golf’s greatest players, Fred Couples.

Surprising the intimate audience of friends and family, A.J performed a soulful mix of his legendary father's Jim Croce’s hits including “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown'', “Operator” and “New York’s Not My Home”, and his own original music like “So Much Fun” and “Better Day”. 

A born storyteller, guests got the exclusive experience of hearing firsthand incredible stories of A.J.’s life, and the history behind his father's music and his legacy. 

It did not take long for everyone in the crowd to get up from their seats and hit the dance floor. It truly was a night of celebration for the past and the future. 

Empire was responsible for securing talent and working closely with the artist and client production and logistics teams to ensure that every detail came off flawlessly.

Empire is the world’s leading producer of headline entertainment for intimate audiences and bespoke, private concert experiences.

Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity Multi-Day Gathering

Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity Multi-Day Gathering

Cannes, France

June 2024

Empire's long-standing industry partner, Awards 360, asked us to collaborate on delivering a three-day, informal outdoor gathering for the prestigious transformation consultancy, COLLINS, and their guests during Cannes Lions in France. Set in a beautifully restored French villa, this series of talks was crafted as an oasis amidst the bustling Cannes Lions schedule, blending insightful conversations with live musical performances and signature cocktails.

The events were purposefully designed to provide business leaders, marketers, and creators with a space to engage in open-minded discussions while enjoying the stunning French Riviera. Each day of programming attracted a highly curated, intimate audience, fostering meaningful connections.

Evenings were capped off with captivating performances by the Moyses dos Santos Band, featuring guest singers provided by Mike Jurkovac and the team at VAST, entertaining guests well into the night.

The result? We delivered a meticulously curated experience in France, further expanding our global footprint in the EMEA region. From leading event logistics, technical production, stage management, décor, and overall project management, the experience was seamless and a success.

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in Las Vegas

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV

June 2024

For the first time ever, The Worlds 50 Best Restaurants took over the bright lights of Las Vegas, inviting esteemed guests to celebrate the best culinary outposts from around the world at the iconic Wynn Las Vegas.

More than 1,200 attendees from across the globe gathered in Las Vegas for the multi-day event, which showcased the 50 finest restaurants worldwide, judged by leading experts in the fine dining community.

Formal programming began with a press conference, hosted by the CEO of William Reed, Charles Reed, where leading members of the 50 Best organization provided insights into the future of 50 Best and opened the floor to questions from international media attendees. The press conference included a fun video produced by the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Bureau featuring an original song, “Yes Chef” by Steve Aoiki. 

The Press Conference was followed by the #50BestTalks, where leading chefs shared their creativity and insights on the food and beverage industry. Guests also sampled fisheye ice cream by Chef Josh Niland, a ‘celtuce celebration’ cocktail by Chef Daniel Humm of Eleven Madison Park, and a spin on the classic cosmic brownie by Chef Kwame Onwuachi of Top Chef and Tatiana.

As the sun set in the Las Vegas desert, the Chef’s Feast took place at Wynn’s East Pavilion & Lawn, with a wide range of experiential sponsor activations. This event was one where chefs were finally able to relax and not cook! Guests enjoyed curated small bites and cocktails from various sponsor booths and received goodie bags containing branded items such as a bottle opener from Beronia and an apron from Estrella Damm.

The celebrations continued the following day with the gala awards night. When guests arrived at a beautifully curated reception space, complete with a red carpet and photography moment, the nominated chefs and restaurants received 50 Best’s signature red scarves, provided by Aspire Lifestyles, to wear and distinguish them throughout the evening. There were over two dozen sponsor activations, each serving specialty food and drink items crafted by top bartenders and chefs showcasing their skills.

Sponsors included San Pellegrino + Acqua Panna, Amex/Resy, Estrella Damm, Beronia, Kaviari, Craft Irish Whiskey, Woodford Reserve, Tequila Ocho, and many more, creating a haven for beautifully crafted cocktails and small bites. Justin & The Swingbeats provided entertainment with classic Vegas hits and jazz twists on modern favorites.

The Awards Ceremony, the highlight of the event, was hosted by Spanish broadcaster Olivia Freijo. She guided the audience through the program and announced several special awards. Barcelona’s Disfrutar took the No. 1 spot this year, celebrated for its brilliantly imaginative dishes, technical mastery, and playful presentation.

The entire ceremony was livestreamed on 50 Best’s Facebook and YouTube channels, allowing a global audience to witness the announcement of the official list of the hottest spots around the globe.

After the ceremony, guests headed to the Encore Beach Club for the The Worlds 50 Best Restaurants Afterparty. They were greeted by Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe lookalikes for photo opportunities at a beautifully designed "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign, provided by LVCVA. DJ Freddy B kept the party going well past midnight, culminating in a surprise champagne toast to Disfrutar for taking the top spot.

Empire worked closely with William Reed and the 50 Best team as well as other partners to deliver this remarkable celebration. Empire’s responsibilities included overall production management, screen content and graphics creation, technical design and management, livestream, sponsor fulfillment and activation, stage management, talent booking, and overall logistics. We are incredibly proud to again partner with William Reed to bring this awards celebration to the culinary capital of Las Vegas, shining a light on the best in hospitality.

Outright International Celebration of Courage Awards & Gala

Outright International Celebration of Courage Awards & Gala

New York City

June 2024

Empire was extremely honored to produce the 2024 Outright International Celebration of Courage Awards & Gala for the 3rd consecutive year.

The event kicked off Pride Month at Pier Sixty in New York City for 500 guests, raising $1 million in funding to support the advancement of human rights for LGBTIQ people.

Featuring a custom blue carpet, cocktails, dinner and program, and an afterparty hosted by DJ Robi D Light, the evening brought Outright’s brand and mission to life through environmental storytelling, a cascading set design, and custom Celebration of Courage signage and decor.

The main event, hosted by drag and television performer BeBe Zahara Benet, honored Grammy, Emmy, and two-time Tony Award winner Billy Porter, the Adobe Foundation, and Mitini Nepal. The program featured a very energetic live auction hosted by New York auctioneer, Harry Santa-Olalla; a special performance by Billy Porter; remarks from Outright International Executive Director, Maria Sjödin; Outright International Board of Directors Co-Chairs, Kathy Teo and Elliot Vaughn; actor, producer, and activist, Wilson Cruz; actor and writer, Daniel K. Isaac; and more. Guests included the indie pop trio BETTY, Real Housewives of New York, fashion designer and businesswoman, Jenna Lyons, artist and director Cass Bird, and more.

Outright is dedicated to working with partners around the globe to strengthen the capacity of the LGBTIQ human rights movement, document and amplify human rights violations against LGBTIQ people, and advocate for inclusion and equality.

Empire was proud to work with the Outright team on program development, speaker and talent advancement, scenic and decor, technical production, overall project management, logistics, and more to deliver a flawless event.

CyberArk IMPACT24 in Nashville

CyberArk IMPACT24 in Nashville

Nashville, TN

May 2024

CyberArk is the global leader in Identity Security, providing solutions to protect human and machine identities, secure hybrid environments, and fend off AI-driven threats. CyberArk IMPACT tackles the imperative need to share the latest advancements in identity security and brings together top experts and organizations dedicated to making the digital world safer for all. For the second year in a row, Empire partnered with CyberArk to produce IMPACT 2024.

This year's IMPACT event was hosted at the JW Marriott in Nashville, TN, where Empire and CyberArk worked together to transform the hotel conference center into an immersive brand experience. Elements included a custom-designed scenic entrance moment, an illuminated Cyber Arena (Expo Hall), and an impressive keynote space. Additional ancillary events were hosted offsite to enrich the Nashville experience. Partner Day showcased CyberArk's goals and achievements at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and all attendees were invited to the IMPACT Soiree hosted at Luke's 32, where they could experience live country music, Nashville cuisine, and a bull riding activation. 

IMPACT kicked off on Monday evening with a welcome reception on the transformed outdoor lawn of the JW Marriott with a performance by The Royal Hounds, passed hors d’oeuvres, lawn games, a tap truck, and Hattie B’s Fried Chicken. The lawn was also home to attendee lunches, curated by the JW's hospitality team and supplemented with local Nashville food truck options. 

This year's keynote programs kicked off on Tuesday, welcoming notable speakers such as Kara Swisher, Robert Herjavec (from Shark Tank), CyberArk CEO Matt Cohen, and CyberArk Founder & Executive Chairman, Udi Mokady. LED wristbands were used as a welcome moment and to indicate that keynote presentations were set to begin. CyberArk utilized every event space at the JW, hosting over 57 breakouts, 30 hands-on labs and trainings, as well as customized events for partners and investors. 

This was Empire’s second year producing IMPACT 2024 and it was a resounding success, with attendance exceeding previous years accompanied by stellar feedback. Empire is proud to have been a part of this year's IMPACT and looks forward to continuing to produce innovative and future-forward events. 

VTS Accelerate

VTS Accelerate

New York City

May 2024

View The Space (VTS), a leading real estate software company, held their annual conference VTS Accelerate at Chelsea Industrial and brought together over 300 clients, influential thought leaders, and employees for one day of keynote presentations, panel discussions, experiential exhibits, and networking opportunities.

The program featured a full day of main stage content from morning to evening, and included multiple sessions and customer awards that were distributed throughout. Guests also experienced the custom-built “Product Zone”, where VTS’s newest software was unveiled, and attendees were able to interact with the VTS product and sales team while connecting with each other.

The creative look and feel of the event was produced via collaboration between Empire and These Days, VTS’s creative agency.

Working hand-in-hand with the VTS team, we managed all aspects of production including fabrication, printing, catering, budgeting, staging, technical production, and venue management. We are proud to be a leading producer of bespoke B2B customer events.

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