When designing, it’s important that we never produce the same event twice. Our team spends hours researching and working with our incredible vendor partners to execute a unique design that embodies our client’s vision and character. Recently, we had the opportunity to plan an event for a repeat client and we loved every moment!

Our client loves hockey! And so do many other clients! The thoughtful and creative details are what help to distinguish one event from the next. We have produced many hockey-themed events – however, this one was different! A few things that helped bring the hockey theme to life and differentiate this party from other hockey-themed parties, included: programs that were handed out to guests showing our “lineup” (aka guest seating arrangements); a specially made Timbit wall; “what the PUCK!” customized Ding Dong Desserts (resembling hockey pucks); and a customized wall of mini hockey- branded pails filled with the honoree’s favorite candy. The “pucks” were passed around the room during the evening, and the hockey-candy pails were a parting gift for all guests. Hockey was everywhere!

We can’t forget the guest of honor’s entrance – carried in on the dancer’s shoulders, holding a giant Stanley Cup replica. MC Teddy Bear led the evening with DJ Rickey T and our dancers: Marin, Ralph, and Avery. This crew kept the dance floor packed all night! All these fun details mixed with our one-of-a -kind entertainment created an unforgettable event that guests are sure to remember!

We have moved! Yes – Star Trax Events has finally moved into our very own building! Not only do we have the most amazing space, but our warehouse is now connected to our offices – which means that we can access everything “event- and valet-related” in seconds. Designed and built specifically for our needs, the Star Trax building now houses all our team members, production equipment, interactive activities, photo booths, furniture, and valet supplies – all under one roof. Our trucks can now pull into our warehouse for easier event set-up, loading, and unloading. And our graphic design and production services are side by side, allowing us to design logos in-house and immediately vinyl or screen print on products. Everything is always accessible to us, making customer service a priority!

Whether you’re meeting with us in one of our cozy and comfortable conference rooms, or you’re strolling through our hallways and enjoying the beautiful event photography and artwork displayed on the walls, we can’t wait to welcome you to our new office.

We’d love to invite you to visit. Please drop by at your convenience or call us if you’d like to set up an appointment. We’re located at 2560 Wolcott in Ferndale and we’re open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Hope to see you soon!

The 15th edition of Plan It! Magazine is finally here! Check out the Spring 2019 issue at www.planitmagazine.com and see what’s new and exciting in the world of events. We have polled local event experts and they have answered questions you didn’t even know you had! This issue explores the latest in trends and party souvenirs (swag) and features some of the BEST LOCAL event photographers. We have also given you a sneak peek at a huge corporate event that our Star Trax Event Team loved planning. Additionally, this edition includes an eight-page section that highlights our interactive activities and rentals – all of which promise to add entertainment, fun, and flavor to your next event.

We are already working on our Fall 2019 edition. It is our mission to put this incredible resource in front of all the right people! Through direct mail, we reach over 1,000 Metro Detroit businesses that plan events. We share the magazine with past, present, and potential clients via weekly email blasts. And during the first week of May, all Detroit Jewish News subscribers (circulation 10,000) receive a Plan It! Magazine along with their weekly subscription – securely attached to the center spread. Plan It! Magazine is also rack-placed throughout Metro Detroit through our partnership with Detroit Metro Times – reaching a diverse audience.

Something NEW and EXCITING this year – our entire collection of Plan It! Magazines, from our first edition to our most current, is now archived at www.issuu.com.
Jump aboard and join us as an advertiser. Ask your callers where they found you. Our advertisers can attest to the volume of leads they receive by being a part of Detroit’s BEST Party Planning Resource Guide – Plan It! Magazine. The place where parties begin!

It was a beautiful Tuesday Morning at Knollwood Country Club. The sun was shining, and it was an ideal day for some Valet Parking. We had 33 of our best valet parkers on staff in anticipation of 350 women coming to Knollwood Country Club for a special event! The Star Trax Valet Team was ready for the task – we are seasoned veterans when it comes to Knollwood events of this magnitude.

The “in rush” was as smooth as can be! We had a flawless system set up and it was executed to perfection. There was never a backup in traffic, and we were able to open every door for every guest. We even walked some very special VIPs to the front door. We parked almost 200 cars! While most of the cars were parked in the Knollwood parking lot, the overflow cars were parked across the street at Beth Ahm. We had a seamless system whereby we set up a remote manger in the second parking lot and were able to move cars quickly and efficiently!

Then we waited … as the ladies listened to a panel of University of Michigan Allergy Specialists and enjoyed a lovely lunch prepared the by Knollwood staff. The feedback we received from the guests was extremely positive – they all had an amazing afternoon. The women found the speakers extremely interesting and thoroughly enjoyed their meal.

The event was over, and it was time for 350 people to leave. No problem! One would think that retrieving and moving 200 cars all at the same time might be difficult to manage. However, we are proud and happy to say that not one person had to wait too long, and all cars were re-united with their drivers within 30-minutes!

Just another example of how having a perfectly set up system can make or break any event! Valet Parking is not just a service, it’s a Science.

This past January, the Star Trax Events Team hopped on a plane to NOLA to attend the Special Events Conference for the first time. We had the opportunity to sign up for classes with guest speakers in all things event-related: food and beverage, client management, and, our personal favorite – design trends. Learning the hottest tips and tricks sparked so much excitement within the four of us – we couldn’t wait to share what we learned with our clients! After the classes, we walked through the conference center on a search for the latest and greatest in the industry. We met new vendors, saw the latest technology and were inspired by all the creativity around us.

Our evenings were filled with opening night parties, wedding expos, and, of course, touring the city that never sleeps. We ate at the trendiest restaurants, walked the infamous Bourbon Street, and made sure to do every ‘touristy thing’ imaginable before heading back to the Mitten.

The best part of our visit was definitely Michael Cerebelli’s Hot List! We arrived onsite almost two-hours prior to the show just to make sure we had good seats (I would be lying if I said we didn’t rush to the very front row as soon as the doors opened). We saw live music & entertainment, specialty linens, rental and dessert vendors, video mapping, and the newest in lighting and tech. The energy in the room was contagious – there is no better feeling than being in a room full of people who share your passion. This trip was an incredible experience – our team had the best time!

You see our Entertainers, Our Valet Parking Staff, and Our Interactive Products all around town.  However, you don’t often get to see those behind the scenes peeps helping to organize the magic.

Some of them are really great arm wrestlers, great at cartwheels, champion egg toss competitors and one guy who can literally fix anything.

These 17 talented people reside under one roof in Ferndale, Michigan.  Everyone wears many hats, but that’s what makes our business so unique.  No matter who you talk to – our commitment to outrageous customer service is the same – but our voices and what we bring to the mix are all different.

Let’s BLOG!

It’s time.

We have so much to say.  At our twice weekly staff meetings, where we review our plans for the coming week/weekend, it’s challenging to get a chance to talk about anything other than our customers and our current projects.  We are also very busy eating Reese’s peanut butter cups or whatever irresistible junk food our valet leaders bring to the meeting.  This blog will allow us to share what excites us about our industry AND what we have learned along the way.

A list of client QUESTIONS has been building for quite some time – and now we have a forum to answer them publicly.   Drum roll please – we are also going to dish on the topics you may be afraid to ask, as well!  LOVE IT, RIGHT?

Each post will be written by a gifted team member.  We want you to get to know us –

Of course, we will also scream about our Event Show (October 9th – Our 15th SHOW!) and Pre-Teen Dance Program (Sign up your 5th grader TODAY!)  Mostly though, our goal is to invite you into our world of orchestrating flawless events.

Earlier this year at an off-premise staff meeting at The Townsend Hotel, our team each privately submitted our “top five” ideas for the principals that guide the behaviors of this business… Next week, Geoff promises to unveil the CORE VALUES of Star Trax Event Productions.   STAY TUNED!

 

We are proud to unveil Star Trax’s Core Values.  These guiding principles set the foundation for our company, our people, and our culture.  Our core values define who we are, how we perform, and what we’re all about.

 

SIX CORE VALUES THAT WE LIVE BY:

 

Provide Exceptional Customer Service

The obsession with pleasing our customers drives every member of our team.

Pride

We take pride in every aspect of our business and in everything we touch.

Team Players

Camaraderie and trust is how we achieve greatness together.

Positivity (No Moodiness Allowed)

A great attitude is infectious and increases productivity and creativity.

Balance

Work is not the only component of our lives. We all need time for family and friends to keep a sense of balance.

Uniqueness

We are driven to find and create products and services that are remarkable and distinctive.

 

We strive for excellence resulting in 100% satisfaction from our clients.  Our goal is to provide an unparalleled and personal experience while planning your event.

 

Everyone loves a birthday (even if you secretly pretend you don’t!)  In the age of social media – thanks to Zuckerberg – you get more birthday wishes from friends and acquaintances than you ever thought possible.

You celebrate with your family; you celebrate with your friends – At Star Trax you get to let loose with your teammates and enjoy a meal and cake with lots of laughs.  Did I mention that a member of our team can literally ramble off a joke at a moment’s notice (Ken)?  It is a REAL talent, especially since I have been telling the same joke (poorly) since the 8th grade!

A few months back I was part of the team that assembled a 45th Surprise Party for a former Mitzvah mom.  I loved working with her on all three of her kids’ parties.  This time around, I collaborated with her husband.  I really think I brought a lot of great ideas to the mix, because I knew her!  Her husband, on his own, created the most amazing video montage with fantastic music to boot!  I felt like I was back in high school…. except I like my hair better now! 🙂

Their guests drank, ate and danced like they were still 25.  Nights like this are what it’s all about!

No matter who you celebrate with…make it memorable.

Take a peek at our latest “if you have a birthday this week” lunch.  (From Anita’s Kitchen and the most delicious and BEAUTIFUL cupcakes from Yummy Cupcakes)

 

I am Brian Fishman or better known as Fish or Josi’s husband.  In my previous careers, I both practiced law and ran my family’s printing business.  I have a knack for being curious about how things work, and when Josi began her interactive entertainment business I was assigned the task of “figuring things out.” In the latest Star Trax Mock Elections, I was voted best hair, most likely to join a motorcycle gang and handiest employee. One of those seems to be more important on an everyday basis here at Star Trax. Can you guess which one?  A little hint – I recently cut my hair and I have yet to find the “right” motorcycle gang to join.

I loved working with my wife and together we created a business called Entertainment by Design (EBD).  EBD provided all kinds of photo products – from the traditional green screen digital pictures to flip photos to bookmarks, and more.  Historically, we always had a great relationship with Geoff Kretchmer and Star Trax.  In 2014, we merged into their operations and I became the Director of Fun.

Geoff, who was voted least handy in the most recent mock elections, tagged me as someone who was “willing and able to learn how to work any product that came through the door.”  From the time I started here at Star Trax, we have added 21 new activity products to our inventory.  I learn how each product works and then train the staff how to use each piece of equipment at events.

The beauty of this community, and one of the greatest benefits of my job, is that I get the chance to meet and greet all the loyal Star Trax and EBD clients.  I get great pleasure knowing that I am providing the perfect product for them on their special day.  So when you are out at a party taking pictures, playing foosball, shooting on pop-a-shot or dipping your hands in wax, know that all of these products have Fish’s special touch.

The relationship between Star Trax and Entertainment by Design could not have worked out better for both of us and I am so happy to be a part of the Star Trax Team.  Just ask Geoff, who is still trying to figure out how to turn the camera on.

 

Sunday, August 17, 2003 was the date of our first Event Planning EXPO. After a year of creating, discussing, planning, selling and marketing – we were set to embark on a “first” for the social event planning community in Metro Detroit. We were thrilled to gather local event industry leaders and experts under one roof for an entire day – ready to meet prospective clients planning milestone events. Nothing could have prepared us for the BLACKOUT of 2003. As the heat index climbed – power surged and disrupted millions in the Northeast, including eight states and Canada. Guess what? Most of the power in our area wasn’t restored until the end of the weekend.  Locals fled the heat – perfect timing for a weeken getaway before the start of school. OUR EXPO WAS SUNDAY!

The show must go on!

Generators were sent to Sheraton Oaks Novi, our EXPO site.  Power was restored!  We had lights, we had electricity, and we had the lingering chlorine smell from the lobby pool, a result of the weekend’s high humidity and lack of power.  Conditions were not perfect.  Our vendors rallied.  Load in happened as planned.  There was no FACEBOOK.  There was no way to reach people and tell them that the hotel was open and the show was still ON.  The doors opened AND PEOPLE CAME!  Over 200 families attended the show.  It was a success.  It proved that our community needed this event.

Fast forward 13 years. The Event Planning EXPO, now referred to as the Event Show, has become an annual event for vendors and attendees alike.  This year, the Event Show will be held on October 9, 2016 at the West Bloomfield JCC (11 AM to 3 PM).  Experts will be on-site, ready to inspire families and businesses planning events!  No matter the occasion, our vendors can walk you through the entire event planning process, sharing ideas on WHAT’S NEW, CURRENT, and ON TREND.   We have it all:  the finest venues, decorators, floral designers, photographers, linens, décor, rentals, catering, fun food, invitation and souvenir specialists, interactive entertainment, music and so much more.  Seventy vendors ready to meet you face-to-face and help you  plan your entire event in one day!

ONLY ONE DAY, ONCE A YEAR!
FREE TO ATTEND!  PRE-REGISTER HERE: www.theeventshowfall2016.eventbrite.com

The Event Show is bigger and better than it’s ever been.  We have more vendors and more attendees than ever.  And we have the finest local talent, experts and businesses in the event planning industry.

The need for year-round event planning assistance has inspired Plan It! Magazine.  This party planning resource guide is filled with trusted referrals and vendors providing services for everything you need to plan your next event.  Updated and published twice yearly, the print edition can be found at various rack locations throughout Metro Detroit as well as online at www.planitmagazine.com.  The content is current.  The photos are phenomenal.  The advertisers are always at your fingertips.

Join us.  Let us hold your hand.  See for yourself how others have made the planning process for their events easy.  Meet the professionals, sample the cuisine and see new products. To sweeten the pot, our vendors will be offering discounts and Event Show incentives for those that attend – ONLY!

We look forward to meeting you on October 9, 2016 at the West Bloomfield JCC from 11AM – 3PM.  

www.theeventshowfall2016.eventbrite.com