Bright Ideas Blog

ACLU Centennial Celebration

  • ACLU Centennial Celebration
  • ACLU Centennial Celebration
  • ACLU Centennial Celebration


Albrecht Events worked together with ACLU-PA to plan a fundraising event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the national American Civil Liberties Union in 1920. This historic celebration at the National Constitution Center buzzed with a positive energy and featured client success stories, a We the People award ceremony, engaging entertainment and an abundance of food, drink and remembrances. Client goals were exceeded with fundraising, number of attendees, feedback of the program and overall event, as well as sharing the history and mission of the organization on both a local and national level. The AE team was delighted to be instrumental in the success of this event from planning details, managing budget and vendor relations, to onsite execution.

Going the Distance: Albrecht Events Takes on Detroit

Albrecht Events Takes on Detroit

“The City of Brotherly Love” is the Albrecht Events’ team home turf, and special event planning in Philadelphia brings us so much joy. With its access to cultural institutions, unique venues, renowned restaurants, and talented vendors, Philly is an event planner’s playground and the perfect location for a conference or meeting.

Though we’re experts when it comes to Philadelphia event planning and destination management, event planning in other cities provides a creative challenge. This summer, Albrecht Events was commissioned to plan two social events associated with a large conference in Detroit, Michigan. The over-3,000 attendee events took place at the COBO Center, the city’s convention center, in June.

Both events highlighted the many facets of Detroit and featured interactive entertainment to encourage guests to mingle and provide guest takeaways, such as live screen printing with a custom design on t-shirts, temporary tattoos made on the spot, and a mentalist who strolled through the crowd.

Outside of the venue, Albrecht Events paid homage to Detroit’s nickname of “the Motor City” with a racetrack featuring small cars that guests could race. There was also a nod to Detroit’s reputation as a musical city: a brass band paraded guests into the venue on night two, which also featured a Motown tribute band that provided the perfect soundtrack.

With only several weeks to the event, Albrecht Events was asked to provide cloud-themed decor to compliment a new product being released by the client. Our team was able to deliver the request with cloud decor that was used to enhance entertainment areas, food stations, and the bar areas; we even provided a cloud themed backdrop to provide a photo op for guests!

Our favorite element of planning events in cities outside of our hometown is meeting talented and unique vendors and artists. For example, we featured a Detroit-based metal sculpture artist who creates rideable bikes that look like animals.

Want our help on your next event? Contact us at info@albrechtevents.com.

Sustainable Event Planning with Biodegradable Name Badges

Sustainable Event Planning

Albrecht Events is thoughtful in our event planning with respect to issues of environmental impact and sustainability. We partner with many vendors with similar values and make environmental sustainability a guiding factor in how our events are planned and executed.

From food and beverage, to centerpieces, to printed items and signs, large-scale conferences can have a negative impact on our environment. And, National Geographic reports that 40% of plastic produced is packaging, used just once and then discarded. Less than a fifth of all plastic is recycled globally, and the United States recycles just 9% of its plastic trash. Reducing the amount of single-use plastic at conferences and events is crucial in sustainable event planning.

On average, Albrecht Events plans over ten conferences per year and utilizes thousands of name tags—and their plastic holders—in the process. Though our team makes an effort to collect them as guests leave their last conference session en masse, the nametag holders are not always reusable, or even recyclable. Lauren Huezo CSEP, DMCP, Manager, Special Projects says, “Though we try to gather all of the name badges we can at the end of a conference, the wear and tear they endure makes it almost impossible to reuse them.”

Huezo recently discovered biodegradable PVC name badge holders, an eco-friendly alternative to the traditional vinyl holder. A special additive in the PVC makes them fully biodegradable with zero toxic residue, and they are tested safe for commercial and home compost. Pair them with recycled paper name tag inserts from 100% post-consumer content and the registration desk at your next conference will be an eco-friendly feature.

Interested in planning an environmentally sustainable event with us? Contact us at info@albrechtevents.com.

Albrecht Events Team Retreat at Rise Gatherings

Albrecht Events Team

Thanks to the care of Rise Gatherings, the Albrecht Events team took a break from our hectic daily planning routine to reset, share, and connect. Under the leadership of Rise's co-founders, Tami Astorino and Rachel Rubin, and with the lens of "Dream Big and Grow Together," AE staff embarked on a day-long team retreat that included opportunities for introspective personal discovery while tapping into the group's creative energy through a facilitated brainstorming session. The Albrecht Events team experienced a team bonding day filled with meaningful conversations and team activities at Rise's New Hope headquarters that furthered us on our personal and shared paths.

Rise Gatherings provides nurturing and bonding experiences that allow participants to retreat from the everyday while immersed in nature and team building activities that empower their lives and positively impact their well-being. "Rise is about power and pleasure. It's about how you can bring more enjoyment into your life and how you can become more empowered to pursue and embrace who you are and what you desire," says Rachel.

According to Inc. Magazine, "Retreats help teams push pause on the stress of completing daily tasks so they can step out of the details and think big-picture for the future." Additionally, offsite retreats not only show employees they are valued by their company, they promote closeness and foster positive relationships between team members. In the end, providing an opportunity for staff to connect is good for business; a recent MIT study published in the Harvard Business Journal reported that socialization outside of the office boosts employee efficiency.

Rise Gathering's provides a fresh approach to team building by uniting a group through celebrating and empowering each individual participant. The Albrecht Events team experienced this empowering day first hand and benefitted from Rise Gathering's personalized well planned event schedule. We can attest to the work of the Rise Gathering's leaders and would love to encourage others to share a day a day like this with their team.

For more information on Rise Gathering's and how to book a retreat for your staff, please contact info@albrechtevents.com.

Albrecht Events Wins Best Entertainment Production from ILEA

Albrecht Events Wins Best Entertainment Production from ILEA

Albrecht Events received the title of 2019 Best Entertainment Production from the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the International Live Events Association (ILEA). The winning submission for "Celebrating the Arts and the Holiday Season," a two-part production for a local company, is a model of Albrecht Events' innovative ideas, creative vision, and team-oriented logistical approach. The award-winning corporate event social celebration for the client's employees took place in December.

The first component, an elegant evening affair at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, was influenced by the venue's world-renowned collection and grand architecture. A variety of event entertainment set the scene for an artsy, soulful vibe, including a jazz guitarist and quartet during guests' arrival and cocktail hour. A costumed photographer, complete with a wearable tray with a portable photo printer, interacted with guests as she snapped their photo and provided it to them as a souvenir. Fitting for the museum's special exhibition, Fabulous Fashion: From Dior's New Look to Now, a fashion illustrator created sketches of guests for them to take home. The pinnacle of the evening's event entertainment came just before dinner, as musicians began to appear on the grand staircase, synchronized to a dramatic lighting effect and a live soundtrack provided by a violinist. A vocalist, accompanied by 14 other musicians playing wireless instruments, sauntered down the stairs and sang a unique and moving arrangement of 'Hallelujah.' It was truly a moving performance for a memorable evening.

A family-friendly, Nutcracker-themed special event brunch closed the weekend events the following morning, at Vie. Adding a sense of whimsy and magic to the space, a ballerina standing-hoop aerialist welcomed guests as they arrived. Various activities kept the children attendees busy in the kids' lounge and play area, such as a Nutcracker painting station, toys and games, a Victorian dollhouse, a wooden puppet theater and a reading nook with a soft ivory and pink teepee and a small kids' flower shaped table and chairs for dolls. Additionally, a pink child's vanity with sparkly tiaras and gold crowns was provided for the children to play dress-up. Custom pink ping pong tables were also available for the older children to enjoy. A strolling magician played the part of Clara's Godfather, Herr Drosselmeier, and a candy-cane-costumed roller skater, a dancing ballerina, and a strolling Nutcracker photographer interacted with guests to add to the fun. The children also had an opportunity to write their own letters to Santa and then drop it in one of the many mailboxes artistically placed on a "Letters to Santa" wall.

Albrecht Events' President, Ashley Albrecht, says of the annual event, "For more than a decade, our team has planned this two-day holiday event extravaganza for our client. Our goal is to surprise and delight guests as well as never repeat elements from previous years' celebrations. It provides our team a creative challenge that we master through working collaboratively, which is when we are at our best. I'm grateful for and proud of the recognition we received from ILEA."

Are you planning your holiday party? Contact us for help!

Save the Date: Revolutionizing Parenthood Conference, April 24 - 25, 2020 at the Chubb Conference Center

Revolutionizing Parenthood

Ashley Albrecht and Erin Taylor, PCI Certified Parent Coach®, have joined forces to create Revolutionizing Parenting, a conference featuring experts in all the ages and stages of childhood development as well as experts in common childhood diagnoses and challenges. For more information, stay tuned to event on Facebook!

NY Times Best Selling author and Oprah-endorsed clinical psychologist, Dr. Shefali Tsabary, will serve as keynote speaker, and will present her message of conscious parenting and mindful living, supported by a blend of clinical psychology and eastern mindfulness.

With Shefali's message and programs from other parenting experts, Revolutionizing Parenthood will equip attendees with new knowledge and ideas to take home to their children to parent them in a more conscious and connected way, paving the way for richer, healthier and more nourishing relationships for all.

For more information, stay tuned to event on Facebook!

Fun for Everyone at The Main Line Bike Race in Ardmore on August 11th

Main Line Bike Race in Ardmore on August 11th

Thousands of spectators will come to Ardmore to cheer on amateur and professional cyclists at the third annual Main Line Bike Race from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cycling fanatics from across the region will descend upon downtown Ardmore to watch as some of the sport's top athletes race through town. The excitement of the bike race, free activities and entertainment will attract many families.

This criterium style bike race, consisting of a one-mile closed circuit loop through the business district of Ardmore, including Lancaster Avenue, provides a unique experience for local families to get an up close and personal view as professional cyclists from around the United States race by at top speeds. As the competitors pedal dozens of laps around the course right in front of them, there are plenty of opportunities to cheer and ring those cow bells!

Albrecht Events is producing a new Family Fun Zone, free and open to the general public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Family Fun Zone offers something fun for everyone! Children of all ages are welcome to get in on the action for FREE at Schauffele Plaza at 99 Cricket Terrace. A roaming magician will stroll and entertain. Kids will go crazy for face painting & body art! Take flight and soar up to 25 feet in the air on a four station Eurobungy. Jump, flip or try something new on this gravity defying ride. Slide down a giant, double lane, circus themed slide. Soccer darts, the newest sporting craze gaining national attention, is BIG fun for everyone! Players kick a velcro covered ball to a giant bulls-eye target to collect points. This event brings the community together and features live music throughout the day, classic car exhibit, a beer garden and lots of fun!

https://www.mainlinebikerace.com/

A Summary of Conference Planning Success: 19th International Vasculitis and ANCA Workshop

  • ANCA Workshop
  • ANCA Workshop
  • ANCA Workshop
  • ANCA Workshop
  • ANCA Workshop

This past April, Albrecht Events executed the 19th International Vasculitis and ANCA Workshop in Center City, Philadelphia with Lauren Huezo CSEP, DMCP, at the helm. Hosted by the University of Pennsylvania, the four-day, biannual, international conference is the premier academic meeting in the field of vasculitis designed to address the interests of experienced clinicians and investigators as well as those new to the field. Albrecht Events was charged with planning the conference from start to finish, including all registration details, such as website design, payment information, registration desk and conference check-in; hotel selection; off-site social events with three separate themes; and printed collateral, including the coordination and publishing of over 500 medical abstracts.

Planning for the conference started with monthly meetings in January, 2017, and Huezo—Albrecht Event’s Manager of Special Projects—and the AE team were charged with finding the perfect city-based hotel that could not only serve as the home-base for over 500 guests, but could also accommodate larger programs and breakout sessions with ballrooms and smaller meeting rooms. Additionally, over 500 printed medical abstracts were to be hung in one space for the duration of the program. The Loews Philadelphia Hotel met all of the criteria; Huezo says, “Ultimately, the client liked the natural light and open feel of the Loews’ Millennium Hall for the poster room, instead of the standard windowless ballroom. And, we needed a hotel that could provide their full attention and exceptional customer service from the hotel staff so that the client could focus on networking with attendees.”

The program also included three off-site social events: a welcome reception at the Reading Terminal Market, a faculty dinner at the College of Physicians, and a gala dinner at the Barnes Foundation. Huezo says “The majority of our usual clients are not familiar with Philadelphia and we typically guide them in venue selection. In this case, the client is Philly based and therefore knew exactly where they wanted each event.” These events provided opportunities for the attendees to network and experience Philadelphia and—all for no additional cost to the guests.

The proximity of the Loews made the Reading Terminal Market a convenient choice for a casual welcome event that highlighted local flavors and featured live music. The “Spring Market” design concept relied on vibrant pops of orange and lime in linens that were a perfect base for unique floral designs of seasonal flowers and vegetables. The highlight of the evening was a performance by the Affordable Rock ‘N’ Roll Act comprised of band members who also work for the National Institute of Health (NIH), including Director, Francis Collins.

The aptly themed “Vintage Medical” faculty dinner at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia was inspired by the Mutter Museum numerous skulls and scientific oddities. After guests arrived via historical trolley, they enjoyed a cocktail hour in the Medicinal Garden featuring a signature Rhubarb Basil cocktail and passed options. Guests were able to take private tours of the museum and were escorted upstairs to Mitchell Hall for a seated dinner and guest speaker. A nod to the colors of Penn Medicine, the linens and custom menu cards featured navy blue and scarlet red.

The gala dinner at the Barnes Foundation closed the social aspect of the conference, and attendees were escorted by motor coaches from the Loews Hotel. Upon entering the museum, guests were greeted with a Blueberry Collins specialty cocktail and various passed hors d’oeuvres. The main court and Terrace were decorated in spring tones of yellow and blues with touches of gold in a mix of communal, lounge and cocktail tables. The watercolor linens were inspired by the brush strokes in the world renowned artwork adorning the walls of the museum. Guests were entertained by a string quartet of musicians playing a mix of modern and classic songs while enjoying eclectic dinner stations with French and Asian inspired cuisines. Guests enjoyed the outdoor terrace and its fireplace, access to the special photography exhibit, and full access to the complete Barnes collection.

Peter A. Merkel, MD, MPH, Chief of the Division of Rheumatology at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of the workshop shares, “Lauren and her entire Albrecht team were simply fantastic partners in the development and implementation of Vasculitis 2019: The 19th International Vasculitis and ANCA Workshop. Every aspect of the meeting reflected the high level of professionalism, competence, and creativity they bring to their work. They helped us host a meeting that was universally regarded as a great success and they brought into the process experience and resources to make this event special. This was a fairly complex 4-day meeting with over 500 attendees from 40 countries with busy scientific sessions and social activities. The whole meeting came in under budget and there were no problems with the logistics. Every member of the Albrecht team was a pleasure to work with and I would recommend them to anyone seeking professional assistance in hosting an outstanding event.”

Now that the dust has settled and the successful conference is in the books, Huezo reflects, “I enjoy the process of seeing an idea blossom into this large-scale experience for attendees after months or even years of meetings and thoughtful planning. To do conferences of this scale in a city I love to people who are at the top of their industry around the world is rewarding as much as it is challenging.”

Global Tastes Was Delicious

Combine delightful decor, global cuisine, energetic entertainment and amazing people supporting an important cause and you have a colorful fiesta celebrating immigrants and refugees who make valuable contributions to the City of Brotherly Love. For the second year, Albrecht Events was proud to partner with Nationalities Service Center on their largest significant fundraiser of the year as the event planning firm for Global Tastes. Albrecht Events is responsible for all the logistics, and manages communications with the venue, restaurants and entertainment so our client can focus on the donor relationships and guests. Delicious food and drinks were flowing, with lively conversation and talented dancers. The celebration was incredibly fun with global entertainment and a diverse selection of international cuisine.

Upcoming Events at Suburban Square

  • Upcoming Events at Suburban Square
  • Upcoming Events at Suburban Square
  • Upcoming Events at Suburban Square
  • Upcoming Events at Suburban Square

Albrecht Events has hatched a weekend full of Suburban Square events that will give you every reason to peel back the layers of winter and step into spring.

For the creative minds, Susan Beard is bringing her WaxWorksPhoto Workshop to the outdoor tent on the lawn on April 12th from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. This is truly a unique experience: using natural beeswax, attendees will create encaustic paintings to take home. Tickets cost $65; this event is expected to be a popular one, so purchase yours now!

Get moving on April 13 at Wellness Day, featuring many of Suburban Square's fitness and lifestyle tenants. At 11 a.m., don't miss the Revisit Your Resolutions workshop with Rachel Rubin and Tami Astorino of Rise Gatherings for a guided reflection and meditation that will leave you with tools and inspiration for enhancing your well being. At 12:15 p.m., join us for "Powering Your Life by Eating More Plants: The How & Why" with master chef Lauren Gladstone. Then, at 12:30 p.m., business strategist and inspirationalist Amita Mehta will lead the workshop "Discovering and Embracing Ourselves." Finish off the day by grabbing your mat for a free yoga class at 1:15 p.m. or taking a shopping tour of the Ardmore Farmers Market with master chef Lauren Gladstone at 1:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/events/841516206182449/

On April 14th from 11 AM to 12:30, Lolly and Yoyo bring their family-friendly show to the Square. Their performances are interactive, high energy, imaginative, and-best of all-fun for all ages! This event is rain or shine.

Stick around Suburban Square after each event for shopping or an amazing meal!

Why Plan a Fundraising Event?

Why Plan a Fundraising Event

Determining the reason for your event and setting goals is the first step to planning. Is it to raise money, increase awareness, cultivate new and existing relationships or all of the above? Celebrating a milestone or launching a new program? Fundraisers are a valuable opportunity to build relationships, thank donors and connect with prospects, while sharing your mission with the community. Your mission-focused event should communicate your message and vision.

Albrecht Events has a wealth of experience planning annual events and galas from start to finish for important causes. Budgets, timelines, promotion, committees, decor, entertainment, run of show -- we do it all. We appreciate the significance of milestone anniversaries and the engagement opportunities these celebrations provide. Albrecht Events is dedicated to helping our clients exceed their net revenue goals while raising awareness of their mission and handling the details while clients cultivate their donor relationships. We bring a unique team approach to these events as we have a deep understanding of what nonprofit organizations need as well as the expertise and resources to design memorable events for corporate audiences.

Tickets are available to two of our upcoming events in April:
  •  Global Tastes to benefit Nationalities Service Center April 4, 2019 at WHYY
  •  Penn Presbyterian Medical Center 18th Annual All-Star Gala April 5, 2019 at Vie

Team ae) is also delighted to be working with Caron Treatment Center to plan the Philadelphia 2019 Gala and ACLU to celebrate its 100th Anniversary in 2020. Stay tuned for more details.

An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending

  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending
  • An Evening of Art and Soul with a FairyTale Ending

For more than a decade, Albrecht Events has planned a 2-day holiday extravaganza full of surprises for this client. Even the destination is unknown to guests until they arrive at the event. This year’s venue, The Philadelphia Art Museum, provided an inspiring and sophisticated setting for this private social event. Influenced by the world-renowned collection of art and grand architecture of this landmark building, our team’s creative vision brought the arts to life through a variety of entertainment.

Greeted by a solo jazz guitarist, guests were introduced to the artsy, soulful vibe of the evening. In the Great Stair Hall, a soul jazz quartet performed a high-energy, funky, dynamic repertoire during cocktail hour. The grand staircase provided a dramatic visual with pattern lighting that changed color with music cues and event programming throughout the evening.

Strolling entertainment enhanced the cocktail hour while guests could explore art galleries, including a Special Dior Fashion Exhibition. A costumed photographer mingled and interacted with guests as she snapped their photo and gave it to them as a memento. Fitting for the current exhibit at the Museum, a fashion illustrator created sketches of guests.

The wow moment came just before dinner as musicians began to appear one by one scattered on the grand staircase while lighting created a dramatic effect. Working closely with the audio/visual company, Albrecht Events created an experience that was projected onto the staircase at the museum and synced musically to an instrumental by the lead violinist. Next a very talented vocalist sauntered down the stairs, sang a unique arrangement of ‘Hallelujah’ and delivered an emotionally charged performance accompanied by a 14-piece band with wireless instruments.

After the song performance on the stairs, guests were invited upstairs to long banquet tables in a u shape around the balcony for dinner. A music ensemble continued to entertain during dinner, including holiday favorites. Guests returned to the Great Stair Hall for dessert and dancing the night away with a full dance band that features a unique blend of soul, blues, R&B, funk and rock. As expected, the band kept the crowd on the dance floor all night long until they were left chanting “One More Song!”

The spirit of imagination was certainly alive as the Nutcracker theme and holiday cheer splashed over Vie the next morning for family brunch. A delicious meal and sweet treats were served in the main ballroom while various family friendly activities kept little ones busy in the kids’ lounge and play area. There was a fairytale feeling with a sweet, sophisticated, and modern palate of mauve, white and gold with festive elements such as nutcrackers, ornaments, silver lanterns, candles, sparkling snowflakes and flocked evergreen trees.

Adding to the whimsy and magic of the space, a ballerina standing hoop aerialist welcomed guests as they arrived. A walk around magician played the part of Clara’s Godfather, Herr Drosselmeier, and provided strolling magic throughout the event. A candy cane on roller skates, a dancing ballerina, and a strolling Nutcracker photographer interacted with guests to add to the fun.

Petite tables and pink chairs provided a whimsical craft station for children to paint and design their very own wooden Nutcrackers and write letters to Santa. The play area featured toys and games, a Victorian dollhouse and play figurines, a puppet theater with puppets of characters from The Nutcracker, a play table with board games, and a reading nook with a soft ivory and pink teepee.

This company’s holiday gathering is always surprising, lively, and memorable for all ages.

Love is in the Air!

  • Love is in the Air Event
  • Love is in the Air Event
  • Love is in the Air Event
  • Love is in the Air Event
  • Love is in the Air Event
  • Love is in the Air Event
  • Love is in the Air Event


Our client Suburban Square hosted a Bridal Soiree to provide resources and ideas to help brides and their friends plan their wedding day! To advertise the event, our team created a bridal scavenger hunt with clues shared on social media. This festive outdoor bridal experience was well attended and featured lots of fun. Attendees enjoyed cocktails and live entertainment, games such as an hourly bouquet toss, and demonstrations by unique vendors. A DJ, poet, fashion illustrator and photo booth added to the festivities.

Big Fun Under the Big Top

  • Albrecht Events Tent Event
  • Albrecht Events Tent Event
  • Albrecht Events Tent Event
  • Albrecht Events Tent Event
  • Albrecht Events Tent Event
  • Albrecht Events Tent Event
  • Albrecht Events Tent Event
  • Albrecht Events Tent Event


Theme selection can be the key to success for event planning. Once this decision has been made, ideas from the ae) team for decor and entertainment are flowing and a proposal that fits within the client's budget is created. This vintage circus themed event transformed an airplane hangar and brought the excitement. A ringmaster on stilts greeted guests and set the tone for this fun event. Panels of red and white draping surrounded the perimeter of the space and hung from the ceiling to emulate a circus tent and was enhanced with twinkling lights. Cirque style performers entertained guests and elevated this reception to something truly memorable. A free standing hoop acrobat served beverages while the lady with a cotton candy skirt was also a big hit! Games added to the enjoyment and laughter with a dunk tank, skee ball, and fortune teller.

Albrecht Events was voted Best Meeting/Event Planning Company!

Best Meeting Planning Event Planning Company

THREE CHEERS FOR TEAM AE)

The winners of the Pennsylvania M+E Best of 2018 readers’ choice awards have been revealed and for the third year in a row, Albrecht Events was voted Best Meeting/Event Planning Company! We are most grateful to our clients and partners who have the confidence in our services to vote for us three years consecutively. Congratulations to our vendors who were also winners. Click here to view list of all winners. Thank you Pennsylvania Meetings & Events for this honor and highlighting our company in the Fall issue.

Three cheers for the amazing, creative women with a passion for event planning and entrepreneurial spirit who make up Team ae). Awards like this make us pause and reflect on the success of this past year and we do have much to celebrate from conferences to fundraising events, from holiday parties that last for days to corporate teambuilding and picnics. We have many more ideas percolating and the best is yet to come. Link - https://pa.meetingsmags.com/pennsylvania-me-best-2018-winners

Best Meeting Planning Event Planning Company

Kristina Burke, Tastemaker and Curator

Kristina Burke

Meet a new ae) team member. Welcome to the crew Kristina Burke!

Adding a creative flair and positive energy, Kristina Burke brings a trove of talents to every event as our Tastemaker and Curator. Her favorite thing to do - and something she happens to be exceptionally good at - is to dig deep with clients to create a truly personalized and memorable event. She has a personal style that translates into exciting ideas and creative designs for ae) and our clients. Always keeping it fresh, she has amazing experience and contacts in the hospitality industry and relishes in sharing her extensive knowledge as a coach, cook, speaker and cocktail slinger. One of her favorite tasks is crafting signature and seasonal cocktails, so it comes as no surprise that she had a recipe published in FOOD & WINE top 100 Cocktails in the Country.

Her ability to build meaningful relationships and collaborate with partners and vendors brings new ideas to life: a skill she developed as the proprietor of the late, great JAMES, a nationally acclaimed fine dining restaurant in Philadelphia. It was at JAMES where she learned the value of fostering relationships with customers, farmers, vendors, wine makers, and craft brewers as it related to conceptualizing unique events and products for brand recognition. One of the best examples of this would be the annual Farmers Dinner, which developed a cult like following, exemplified by tickets being sold out within minutes of being announced.

Kristina was instrumental in bringing Philadelphia's traveling beer garden to life. As the opening operations consultant for Parks On Tap, Kristina was responsible for hiring and training, developing each parks design, layout, flow and creating menus; additionally, she took on the role of the media spokesperson at the ribbon cutting, which was aired on local news stations. Other career highlights include cooking for 1000 of the most influential food & beverage professionals at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, moderating the Garces Group's Women in Hospitality Event in 2017, and teaching a Masters Class for industry professionals at COOK. Most recently, she created operational protocol and procedures for the new private event space at YARDS Brewing Company. She continues to mentor their events team, develop menus and consult on the design and décor of the raw space.

Her volunteer efforts have included Home and School Board President and Auction Chair of Greenfield Elementary School - resulting in many hugely successful fundraising events for her children's school. She loves to hike with her two little trailblazers, bike "the loop" in Philly with her family, drink champagne and eat oysters, travel and eat pasta as often as she can.

"Business, like life, is all about how you make people feel. It's that simple, and it's that hard." - Danny Meyer.

Dining Under the Stars

Dining Under the Stars

Venue selection can be critical to your event's overall success. It can set the mood and determine the event budget and decor. A venue can really inspire an event, and the Masonic Temple, a world-renowned architectural wonder, was the setting for this recent corporate dinner.

The room looked magnificent with ancient architectural details featured. Navy sequin tablecloths highlighted the stars etched in the glass ceiling above while peacock and gold accents brought out the brilliant stained glass windows to offer breathtaking ambiance.

Philadelphia is home to many unique and traditional event venues and spaces with exceptional cuisine so it's a great location to host your next corporate dinner, meeting, conference, teambuilding, holiday party, celebration, special event or fundraising gala! Let Albrecht Events scout the location for your next unforgettable special event!

Albrecht Events Featured in Catering Magazine

Albrecht Events Featured in Catering Magazine


Oh What Fun! We are featured in Catering Magazine!

Catering Magazine featured Albrecht Events in an article about "December events that added extra holiday sparkle to make spirits bright." From glittery gala to festive family fun, Albrecht Events has a wealth of experience and ideas to plan memorable holiday events and celebrations.

When it comes to holiday event planning, treasure your time and let Albrecht Events do the work. From start to finish, Albrecht Events can manage every detail for any occasion - corporate holiday parties, anniversary celebrations, fundraising events, teambuilding, conferences, corporate dinners, company picnics, and much more. Down to the smallest detail, Albrecht Events would be delighted to plan your next event!

Read about us in Catering Magazine.

Albrecht Events - 2017 Best Pennsylvania Meeting/Event Planning Company and Event Décor Provider

2017 Best Pennsylvania Meeting/Event Planning Company

Congratulations to every member of Team AE) on being selected two years in a row for the Best of Pennsylvania reader's choice awards for both Best Meeting/Event Planning Company and Best Event Décor Provider.

According to Best of Pennsylvania, for those tasked with handling an event or meeting and looking to outsource, it seems there is no better than Albrecht Events. "We believe the key to success for event and meeting planning is listening to your client and working collaboratively to make their vision a reality. Our team goes above and beyond to provide innovative ideas, connect with the best resources, and provide attention to detail from concept to execution flawlessly," says Ashley Albrecht, president.

We are excited, flattered and humbled to receive this award. Congrats to all the winners who make Philadelphia an award-winning location to host an event or meeting! Many thanks to all of you who have confidence in our services and voted for us! Click here to view all winners.

Charity Bike Builds: Fun and Philanthropic Team Building

Charity Bike Builds: Fun and Philanthropic Team Building
Looking for a unique teambuilding activity? Albrecht Events has the answer. With Charity Bike Builds, fun and charitable giving are combined for a memorable team bonding! We had so much fun planning a teambuilding earlier this month for a company who was really energized and inspired by the event.

Every team built a bike, earning bike parts after each challenge. Our very own Megan Gray was the emcee and led these fun activities (such as charades, trivia and relays) to build camaraderie. At the end of the day each team completed a bike and they were donated to Philadelphia Police Athletic Unit to give to deserving children in need. Everyone stepped up to the challenge and the goal was accomplished - both teambuilding and bike building!

5th Annual Cocktails and Cleats – September 13

Cocktails and Cleats – September 13

Albrecht Events is delighted to again collaborate with the Philadelphia Union Foundation on their most successful annual fundraising event, Cocktails and Cleats. Drawing on inspiration from the shiny gold in the new logo and the desire to highlight the mission of the Union Foundation and its community partners, we proposed theming the event “Cocktails and Cleats: Celebrating The Union Foundation’s Shining Stars.” The décor creates an elegant, upscale ambiance with the spotlight on the generosity of donors and the success of the organization. From theme and program development, to sponsorship support and booking entertainment, Albrecht Events will oversee the event logistics from start to finish.

Join the fun as Philadelphia Union players and fans gather to support the mission of the foundation to provide the opportunity for every kid in underserved communities to play in a safe environment and live a healthy and active life. Proceeds benefit Philabundance, Big Brothers Big Sisters and efforts with U.S. Soccer to build mini soccer pitches. The celebration at Vie on Wednesday September 13th will feature the Union Foundation’s shining stars and lively entertainment including a Comedy Sportz show. Tickets are just $275 for delicious cuisine, open bar and mingling with the players! For more information or to purchase tickets: https://wwwphiladelphiaunion.com/foundation

Mixing with Mermaids is Always a Good Idea

Mixing with Mermaids is Always a Good Idea

Combine imagination, creativity, and summer fun then merge that with the past, present and future in one room, and you have the Albrecht Events Mermaid Mixer, an extraordinary event to show appreciation to clients, partners and friends. Not only did we celebrate the joy of working together but supported children’s literacy by asking each guest to bring a favorite book to donate to Tree House Books. With an ambiance that brought guests down by the sea for a few hours, people mingled with old and new friends while enjoying delicious locally inspired cuisine and wine. This event demonstrated how Albrecht Events works closely with partners to bring together the best talent, resources, and inspiration to bring a vision to life. Event partners for the Mermaid Mixer included: Birchtree Catering, CORT, DFW Event Design, Green Engine, LMN Design, Mermaid BBQ Company, Party Rental, Slice Communications, Speed Pro Imaging and Susan Beard Design. Albrecht Events is proud to support local business, our community and women. To support children’s literacy, guests were invited to bring a favorite book to donate to Tree House Books.

We also believe in mermaids and that anything is possible. #seastheday

Philly Style Magazine wrote about it! https://phillystylemag.com/photos-mermaid-mixer-happy-hour

Christmas in July? Color Me Festive!

You may not be hosting a Christmas in July event, but it is time to start thinking about planning your company holiday party! A leading staffing and recruiting firm has hired Albrecht Events for ten consecutive years to design and produce a bigger and better two-day holiday extravaganza each year. For this event, planning begins early in the year because it provides the most options for venues and entertainment as it is a popular event planning time of year! While these events can be produced quickly if needed, Albrecht Events advises you to start the event planning now! A few more tips to consider:

  • Hire an event planner to handle the details so you can enjoy the party.
  • Set a date and book the venue quickly.
  • Create a detailed budget and timeline for planning.
  • Pick a theme and be creative.
  • Plan décor, centerpieces, lighting and entertainment.

Albrecht Events has won the ILEA Liberty Award for Best Corporate Event for this holiday party the past two years, and continues to exceed client expectations each year. Check out the video here - http://www.albrechtevents.com/event-spotlight.php.

  • Christmas in July? Color Me Festive!
  • Christmas in July? Color Me Festive!
  • Christmas in July? Color Me Festive!
  • Christmas in July? Color Me Festive!
  • Christmas in July? Color Me Festive!
  • Christmas in July? Color Me Festive!

Albrecht Events - 2017 ILEA Award Winners

Albrecht Events - 2017 ILEA Award Winners  Photo credit Jordan Brian Photography

Color Me Festive - BEST EVENT FOR A CORPORATE OR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

DNC - BEST TEAM EVENT

We're proud to announce that Albrecht Events received 2017 ILEA awared for 'Best Event for a Corporate or Non-Profit' and 'Best Team Event.'

Albrecht Events - 2017 ILEA Award Winners

THE ILEA Liberty Awards recognize the creative talents and innovations in the special event industry, and our Albrecht Events team is honored and humbled to be awarded for the second consecutive year – Best Event for a Corporate Organization. We believe the secret to success is listening to your clients and working collaboratively to make their vision a reality. In addition, we are pleased to receive Best ILEA Team Effort for our collaborative event planning efforts on the DNC Thank You Event with DFW Event Design and Jordan Brian Photography. Award-winning events are certainly memorable, and our event planning team approaches each new event as a creative opportunity to improve on our past work. Congratulations to all the ILEA Liberty Award special event winners!

Ashley Albrecht: Infusing Life with Color?

Ashley Albrecht Young Event Pro

Going out on her own 12 years ago to “see what would happen,” Ashley Albrecht, President and Founder of Albrecht Events, parlayed her creative expression as an English major into the event planning world, realizing that event planning is a good balance between creativity and structure. Each event has a start and a finish, and creative writing helps to paint the picture for potential clients.

She also discovered a deep passion for the creative aspects of event planning, “bringing ideas to life in a 3-dimensional way,” as she recently did for a 10-year client’s holiday party. Whereas last year’s event was an all-black theme, this year she proposed the complete transformation of a raw space into a multi-colored palette, taking the group “from a starry night event to a blast of color.”

The 200+ person audience, celebrating the entire corporate family, appreciated the decorative accents that utilized the raw industrial space in new ways. A giant wall of balloons climbed up a wrought-iron staircase, dueling pianos added exciting ambiance, and upside-down Chinese umbrellas of various colors decorated the ceiling.

Of course, as a raw space, it wasn’t always roses. There were changes to the building that they weren’t made aware of until the day of, such as a wall completely removed. Her team overcame this challenge and others, focusing their approach on seeking advice from the experts in the category of the challenge, staying calm, and picking the problem apart.

It’s that team-based collaboration that Ashley likes the most about her career: being given a challenge and trying to “figure out the best way to make that happen.” She appreciates the organic nature of her career path – meeting people early in her career, attending lots of networking events, and continuing forward even when it’s hard.

Besides perseverance, Ashley’s advice for people new to the industry is to “get out and meet people face to face; that’s the biggest thing in the beginning.” YEP! agrees, and we hope you’ll attend our monthly genuine networking events to do just that.

Read the full article at the Young Event Pros Website.

Wee One-On-One: Ashley Albrecht

Wee One-On-One: Ashley Albrecht

In which one well-traveled suburban supermom shares her favorite stuff. Read full article.

The mama: Ashley Albrecht — mom to Teddy, 6, and Annie, 3 — is the owner/operator (plus the event planner/creative developement/idea maven) for Albrecht Events, a 12-year-old firm that just launched the cool-sounding Wellbydesign summit, a two-day wellness experience in April at Woodloch Resort nestled in the Pocono mountains. The retreat (which you can read more about here) — which will cover everything from kombucha making to meditation to floor pilates, mental toughness, paddle board yoga, and more — is aimed at other entrepreneurs and women interested in a quick dose of wellness, Ashley says. (That’s you, too, Wee mamas!) “As a busy working mom, it is difficult to get away for more than a few days, and as an event planner, it’s difficult to have a regular routine with events and networking in the evenings and on weekends. So we’re packing the schedule with every a busy working person needs to fill their WELL.” When she’s not working (or retreating to the lovely Woodloch), Ashley bops around Philly and its burbs with the kids — and here the Lansdale native offers up a bunch of lesser-known fun spots.

Albrecht Events - 2016 Best Pennsylvania Meeting/Event Planning Company

2016 Best Pennsylvania Meeting/Event Planning Company

We're proud to announce that Albrecht Events has been named the 2016 Best Pennsylvania Meeting/Event Planning Company by Best of Pennsylvania.

From the Best of PA Press Release: "For those tasked with handling an event or meeting and looking to outsource, it seems the search stops at Albrecht Events, LLC, selected as the Best Meeting/Event Planning Company. The event management firm specializes in helping meeting planners and clients navigate the tri-state region, and takes care of everything from A to Z for meeting and event planning. The Lansdale-based consulting service also handles destination management." Click here to view all winners.

Safari Sophistication

  • Safari Sophistication
  • Safari Sophistication
  • Safari Sophistication
  • Safari Sophistication
  • Safari Sophistication
  • Safari Sophistication


Inspired by the adventure and intrigue of Africa, we expanded on the venue’s natural scenery to create an engaging atmosphere that was fun and lively. Zebra print linens and natural wood centerpieces set the exotic mood and the décor brought the adventurous spirit of Africa alive for award-winning pharmaceutical representatives. Following an energetic team meeting, the evening celebration took place on the veranda with a breathtaking view of the sunset and a surprise entrance of the drum café. Everyone received a drum, and the energy was brought to new heights as the team was beating on their drums in harmony. Guests were then amazed by the poise, grace and fearlessness of the fire dancer. Community seating and fire pit tables were scattered around the terrace for colleagues to continue to connect and be inspired throughout the night.

Philadelphia Resources – Navigating Your Way Through Philly

Welcome to our neighborhood. Philadelphia has become a haven for small businesses and artists; home to several top-notch universities and museums; and a city that will make your culinary dreams come true. We are so proud to be a part of this thriving and growing community. As you prepare your visit, here are a few helpful sites to get you started. You are sure to find some sparkling and special hidden gems that will have you talking about our NEW Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Resources

Uwishunu - the most comprehensive site for all categories of stuff to do in the city.

This archived Reddit post lists all the museums in the area, and then some.

Discoverphl.com is also quite comprehensive, we award it extra points for including outdoor activities. (Including the low-down on Philly’s almost famous pop-up beer gardens)

Eater 38 is the best place to find the go-to restaurants in the City of Brotherly Love. It has never let us down.

Eater Heatmap - if you’re feeling adventurous, the Eater Heatmap lists the newest restaurants that are garnering the most attention in the Philly foodie world.

Mann Center - one of the more unique venues in the city, this outdoor venue has some pretty amazing concerts featuring Philly’s finest, the Philadelphia Orchestra. They often play popular movie scores as the movie plays live on jumbo screens. Bring a picnic and some chairs.

Albrecht Events - 2016 ILEA Award Winners

A Tale of Two Events: One Brilliant Plan - BEST EVENT FOR A CORPORATE OR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

We're proud to announce that Albrecht Events received 2016 ILEA awared for 'Best Event for a Corporate or Non-Profit' and 'Best Team Event.'

Albrecht Events - 2016 ILEA Award Winners

Challenged for nine consecutive years by the CEO of a leading consumer products equity organization to produce a holiday party that is more memorable than the previous celebrations, we were hired as the general contractor and overall event designer for this weekend of events. Our event designers drew inspiration from the twinkle of the holiday light show, Electrical Spectacle, at the venue Franklin Square and expanded the concept of illumination to dazzle attendees throughout the evening. From the moment of arrival and throughout the event on Saturday December 5, 2015 from 6 to 11 p.m., guests experienced one magical illumination after the next. From being greeted by illuminated butterflies fluttering overhead and guiding them to the tent draped in gold metallic and sparkling décor to an evening of entertainment programming that included a lighted drum kit and a performance by iLuminate, the evening was literally brilliant from start to finish. Following the dinner, the event space was also immediately transformed into a Willy Wonka themed event for a family brunch the following morning on December 6, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also, important to note, the entire plan for both events, including the location and theme, is a surprise to guests until their moment of arrival.

Situated in the heart of Historic Philadelphia, Franklin Square was selected as the ideal location to host this magnificent 2-day event. With the spectacular Electrical Spectacle light show featuring more than 50,000 lights as the inspiration, our event designers weaved illumination throughout the entire experience leaving more than 200 guests with a cheerful holiday glow.

A tent with a partial clear ceiling was constructed to allow the exterior light show and stars to add to the ambiance and shine through the cocktail space. The event kicked off with holiday spirits and appetizers surrounded by glittering brilliance. The metallic backdrop enhanced the guests’ attire as they were asked to wear gold, silver or black. The glittery look was further enhanced with shimmering gold sequined linens highlighted with gold vases of lush amaryllis, calla lilies, berries and other seasonal blooms. Positioned atop a raised platform, a Mirror Man contortionist in a costume featuring head to toe circular mirrors entertained guests and provided further illumination from the reflection of his costume, along with the glowing roving butterflies.

From cocktails to dinner, the gold drape was opened for a dramatic reveal of the dinner space. In contrast to the cocktail space, our team designed a theatrical black box. Everything was black – draped walls, carpet, dance floor, linens, chairs, plates, goblets, and the ceiling. Using a fiber optic curtain with programmable twinkle lights for the ceiling treatment, guests dined under the stars and our team had the opportunity to truly black out the room for the iLuminate performance. Guests were completely in awe of the atmosphere. Floral centerpieces reflected the dark, black look and some tables were enhanced with black structural elements for height along with glowing votive candles.

As guests finished the second course, a Voice of God requested that guests remain safely seated as all lighting would be turned down for a special performance. The tent went completely dark and quiet until the music started and dancers from iLuminate entered the stage. This was a surprise performance to guests. As seen on America’s Got Talent, these electrifying entertainers wearing glow-in the-dark-suits had jaw-dropping dance moves. The glowing colors of their costumes moved and rotated based on their songs and musical tempos as the dancers told several stories in a completely blacked out room giving their costume impact and creating a big wow. After dessert, guests were treated to another performance curated by our team. Go Go Gadjet, a band with a cutting edge musical experience and unique lighting choreography and production attracted guests to the dance floor to experience a light show that pulsated with the beat of the music. As guests danced the night away, their light up accessories continued the theme of illumination. The fiber optic ceiling above also coordinated with the band’s light choreography and changed colors to match the mood of each song. Connecting with the audience, corporate associates even joined arm in arm revealing the success of the overall event before being transported back to their hotel.

While asleep, visions of sugar plums danced in their heads as they planned to return the next morning with their families for brunch. Bright and festive décor including brightly colored cushions and linens, as well as oversized colorful candies and lollipops, were brought in overnight to provide a contrast to the black backdrop from the night before.

It was an unusually warm sunny day in December which allowed 240 guests to experience the fun Franklin Square attractions, which were exclusive to the party-goers. Centered around it’s beautiful fountain, Franklin Square features the Liberty Carousel, a one-of-a-kind Philly Mini Golf course, as well as a playground, one of Philly’s best play spaces.

Inside the tent many activities entertained children – a giant coloring wall, play areas with mini cardboard ice cream trucks, arts and crafts project to create a lollipop man, photo booth with coordinating themed props and unlimited sweet treats including a branded hot chocolate bar and a branded cotton candy station. Children were delighted with all the fun and sat on a couch decorated with giant lollipops to receive gifts from the company. Willy Wonka characters engaged with guests and led a bubble gum blowing contest. The atmosphere was festive with family favorite holiday tunes piped in.