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5 Tips for Great Chicago Event Public Relations- Round 1

Feb 292012

By Michelle Molise — Over the years I’ve worked with many fantastic charitable organizations on events from golf outings to formal luncheons to extravagant galas. I’ve developed a list of public relations tips from my experience over the years, here are five.

We sold-out tickets to Imerman Angels Spring Fling to Benefit 1-on-1 Cancer Support

1) Point your guest to your charity’s website to purchase tickets. From your own site, you can still link ticket purchasers to a third party service like EventBrite, but don’t miss out on the traffic to your own site. It is also better recognition when the press lists your organization’s website in their coverage of your event, plus it is a lot cleaner looking and easier for guests to recall than a long, character-ridden third party url.

2) Feel free to list event sponsors and other partners in a press release, especially if they are enhancing the event elements in a major way. However, it is at the media’s discretion whether or not they will mention those sponsors in their coverage. You can bold and underline your sponsors until you’re blue in the face, but that doesn’t guarantee that any or all of them will get placement.

3) Don’t abandon your social media outlets on the day of the event. Although an organization’s staff can get so busy that they go into “survival mode” to pull the event off flawlessly, it is important to still communicate with guests and potential guests. If no one responds to questions like- “Are tickets still available at the door?” -then you can lose out on potential sales. It is also a good idea to interact with guests and create buzz by live Tweeting and posting Facebook photos during the set up of- and throughout- the event. Encourage check-ins and arm your staff, volunteers and guests with your official Twitter handle and a fun event hashtag for the best results.

4) Speaking of sales, be sure to identify in event communications when the deadline for advance ticket sales will be, and whether or not tickets will also be available at the door, as capacity allows.

5) Dial up the the momentum by asking your event partners, Master of Ceremonies, comped media guests, sponsors and vendors to tag your Facebook event or organization’s fan page on their own personal pages and fan pages. Return the courtesy by tagging their names or businesses on your own fan page. We’re not involved with this event, but we are impressed with this article in event trade magazine BizBash about an organization doing it right, Tickled Pink.

Next round… 5 tips on how to work with an event photographer to get the most PR opportunities…

Chicago's Original Steakhouse Gene & Georgetti: The Film

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Feb 052012

Molise PR had the privilege of working with Chicago’s top event planner Michelle Durpetti Events on the film premiere for client Gene & Georgetti. Vince Gerasole from CBS 2 Chicago stopped by the restaurant to discuss the film.

Over 300 guests gathered at Park West for the private party to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Chicago’s original steakhouse. The spectacular evening served as the premiere of a documentary film produced by Loudbyte Cinematography. The film featured memories as told by Gene & Georgetti staff, family members and loyal regulars including Rich Melman of Lettuce Entertain You, Robert Hatoff of Allen Brothers, Phil Stefani, and Dominic DiFrisco. Never-before heard stories included tales of celebrity guests Lucille Ball and her Mame premiere party; Joe DiMaggio and his heartfelt requests related to Marilyn Monroe; and Frank Sinatra who became close personal friends with the restaurant’s founder Gene Michelotti and his wife Ida.

The film was commissioned by- and the event was produced by- Chicago-based event and wedding planning firm Michelle Durpetti Events.
Michelle Durpetti, whose parents Tony and Marion Durpetti are second generation owners of Gene & Georgetti, also surprised her parents on stage with a 43rd Anniversary cake, custom-created by Tipsy Cake, and lit up with sparklers. Phil Stefani Signature Events served as catering partner while Sugar Chic Designs hosted a delectable “movie concession stand” filled with themed sweets and Garrett Popcorn. After the film, Sway Chicago performed a Big Band-style set followed by a dazzling, live theatrical number by Zzazz Productions. To the dancing crowds’ delight, a confetti cannon blast signaled the last hour of the evening as DJ music by Fig Media kicked of the evening’s grand finale. Other event partners included Carasco Photography, floral arrangements by Exquisite Designs, invitations and event printing by Erickson Design, and staging and lighting by Automated Lighting Design.

Check out photos from the party from Your Trendy Magazine.

Imerman Angels 1-on-1 Cancer Support on Living Healthy Chicago, WGN TV

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Jan 202012

As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, I’ve had the privilege of serving as publicist for Imerman Angels 1-on-1 cancer support organization since before its official inception. In fact, I was working at the Detroit Free Press when we first ran a story on Jonny Imerman in 2004; and that’s when my love affair with his mission first blossomed.

Many people here in Chicago would say that Jonny is the most effervescent, charismatic person in all of Chicagoland, and I would have to agree. He and I recently had the privilege to work with someone who very much matches his level of compassion and contagious energy – Jane Monzures.

Check out her compelling story on WGN TV’s Living Healthy Chicago. Jane is truly an “Angel” for helping us share our mission and help reach Cancer Fighters, Cancer Survivors and Cancer Caregivers.

Just for old time’s sake, here’s a clip from the Chicago Sun Times in 2006. We were kids! -Michelle Molise

Garrett Popcorn Shops Announces New, Limited Time Fall Flavor Pumpkin CaramelCrisp

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Oct 112011

Garrett Popcorn Shops

It’s October! That means falling leaves, jeans and sweatshirts, haunted houses… and National Popcorn Poppin’ Month!

Molise PR client Garrett Popcorn Shops is celebrating their autumnal love this season with a new limited time flavor, Pumpkin CaramelCrisp®!

Pumpkin spices are combined with the irresistible taste of Garrett Popcorn Shops’ famous CaramelCrisp recipe to make this fantastic fall flavor – available online and in select stores through October 31.

Looking for a possible candy bag stuffer in time for trick-or-treating? Be the bell to ring with Pumpkin CaramelCrisp Popcorn Balls, available in stores only throughout October.

There’s no need to toil and trouble over planning goodies for this year’s Halloween parties. Garrett Popcorn Shops offers a spellbinding orange and black signature-striped tin available for purchase in stores and online, filled with your choice of Garrett flavors.

For more information or to order online, visit their new interactive website: www.GarrettPopcorn.com.

Lawry's the Prime Rib Hosts Annual Halloween in the Haunted Mansion

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Oct 102011

Be careful not to spoil your appetite this Halloween. Molise PR client Lawry’s the Prime Rib presents Halloween in the Haunted Mansion – featuring a prix fixe menu and tours of the 1890s McCormick Mansion on Saturday, October 29 and Monday, October 31, 2011.

The evening will feature a dinner menu infused with spook-inspired dishes:

Bloody Eyeball Shooter and Ghoul’s Goulash in a Puff Pastry
Blood Orange Intermezzo
“Special Cut” of 8 oz. Roasted Prime Ribs of Beef, Yorkshire Pudding, Monster Mashed Potatoes and Graveyard Gravy
Choice of Creamed Corn or Creamed Spinach
Dessert of Devilish Food Cake or Creepy Pumpkin Pie
Coffee or tea fresh from the cauldron.

Entrée options also include the chef’s fresh fish or vegetarian dish.

Following this monster of a meal, Lawry’s the Prime Rib will give guided tours of the 1890s McCormick Mansion following dinner every half hour on the hour beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Guests will enjoy a trip through the history of the McCormick Mansion and a possible glimpse of rumored resident, Mrs. McCormick’s Ghost.

Dinner is $51 per guest, plus tax and gratuity. For reservations, guests may call (312) 787-5000, and request the “Lawry’s Halloween Package.” For information visit www.LawrysOnline.com.

Get Ready to “Beat Dat Beat” with Your Boy DJ Pauly D at Enclave

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Oct 032011

DJ Pauly D

It’s Teee-Shirt Tiiiiime!

On Saturday, October 7^th, DJ Pauly D of MTV’s “Jersey Shore” fame is back and ready to Beat Dat Beat at Chicago’s Premiere Nightclub – and Molise PR Client – Enclave!

With his trademark blowout, ear-to-ear smile and one-of-a-kind catchphrases, DJ Pauly D has won over the hearts of America as well as the electronic music scene. Go ahead and get your GTL on and come out to Enclave to party with “your girl’s favorite DJ” and experience the hot and exciting show that the DJ-turned-reality star is famous for.

Unsure if you can handle DJ Pauly D’s entrancing electronic beats from 10 p.m. till 2 a.m.? We’ll help persuade you:

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at www.enclavechicago.com or at the door while supplies last. Enclave doors open at 10 p.m.

Garrett Popcorn Shops Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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Sep 272011

Garrett Signature-Striped Pink Tin

Molise PR client and Chicago favorite Garrett Popcorn Shops is rolling out the pink ribbon in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

During the month of October, Garrett Popcorn Shops will donate 10 percent of Garrett signature pink tin sales to Chicago-based A Silver Lining Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides access to cost-free mammograms.

Founded by Chicago native and breast cancer survivor Dr. Sandy Goldberg – who you might also recognize as NBC Chicago’s health and nutrition expert – A Silver Lining Foundation’s mission is to ensure dignified, respectful and equal access to quality cancer education and services for all, by creating meaningful partnerships with community, advocacy and healthcare organizations.

Check out the video below for an introduction to A Silver Lining Foundation, with a special appearance from another Molise PR client, Imerman Angels.

The Garrett signature-striped pink tin is available for purchase in stores and online, filled with your choice of traditional Garrett flavors like CaramelCrisp^®(which can be selected with almonds, pecans or cashews), CheeseCorn^™, Buttery, Plain and the famous The Chicago Mix - a blend of savory CheeseCorn^™ and rich, sweet CaramelCrisp^®.

Chicago Private Dining Steakhouse Group & Futures Industry Assocation Host Benefit for Food Depository

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Sep 272011

The Futures Industry Association’s Futures Cares “Great Chicago Steak Out” fundraiser is set on Wednesday, Oct. 12 with a goal to raise $500,000 for the Greater Chicago Food Depository. For the first time, Molise PR client Lawry’s The Prime Rib will join other members of the Chicago Private Dining Steakhouse Group including Benny’s Chophouse, Mastro’s, Gibson’s, Morton’s, Carmichael’s, Fleming’s, Harry Caray’s, Ruth’s Chris and David Burke’s Primehouse to provide all of the food for this private event, which draws attendees from the Futures Industry Association Expo.

The Private Dining Steakhouse Group was founded in March of 2004 by Kelly McGrath, who currently serves as the Events Director at Mastro’s Steakhouse, with the support of Lynette Valez of Gibson’s Steakhouse and consists of the top steakhouses in the downtown Chicago area that also offer private dining. What makes this group original is that clientele and information is shared amongst the competition and used to improve guests’ overall dining experience. If a steakhouse can not accommodate a guest, that person can be referred to the group who will then contact the guest if they have availability. This often proves convenient for the busy corporate planner or an out-of-town individual who may not be familiar with area restaurants.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago’s food bank, is a nonprofit food distribution and training center providing food for hungry people while striving to end hunger in our community. The Food Depository distributes donated and purchased food through a network of 650 pantries, soup kitchens and shelters to 678,000 adults and children in Cook County every year. Last year, the Food Depository distributed 69 million pounds of nonperishable food and fresh produce, dairy products and meat, the equivalent of 140,000 meals every day. The Food Depository’s programs and services for children, older adults and the unemployed and underemployed address the root causes of hunger. For more information, log onto http://chicagosfoodbank.org or call 773-247-FOOD.

This fundraiser arrives at a critical time for the Food Depository, which is serving 59 percent more individuals at pantries versus three years ago.

Imerman Angels Celebrates 5th Anniversary

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Jun 102011

Imerman Angels celebrates five years as a 501c3, and 4500 pair ups between cancer fighters, survivors and caregivers. It is a remarkable feat that will be celebrated in high style on the high seas (Great Lakes really) on Friday, July 22 at the Columbus Yacht Club. The boat will stay dockside for the duration of the evening that will feature live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres from Nacional 27 and Wildfire and complimentary cocktails. Molise PR Chicago will also celebrate our anniversary – five years proudly serving as PR agent for Imerman Angels, a true honor.

Imerman Angels: Golfing "Fore" a Good Cause - Chicago PR Blog

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Jun 102011

Molise PR proudly supports Imerman Angels inaugural golf outing at Ruffled Feathers Golf Club on Friday, June 17. The full day of festivities will raise funds to further the mission to provide 1-on-1 support to the cancer community- matching and connecting fighters, survivors and caregivers.

Real Urban BBQ joins USO of Illinois to host picnic for military -Molise PR Blog

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May 252011

Since opening in November 2010, Real Urban Barbecue (610 Central Avenue #177 in downtown Highland Park) is now serving up an average of 2,000 lbs. of brisket each week. On Saturday, May 28, celebrate National Brisket Day while also saluting those who serve our country with a patriotic Memorial Day weekend picnic on the patio. Our Molise PR team is proud to have helped conceptualize and promote this community event.

From noon – 3 p.m. on Saturday, active military and veterans are invited for a complimentary cookout at Real Urban Barbecue, featuring grilled favorites and southern comfort sides like smoked baked beans and homestyle mac & cheese.

For the entire day, 10 percent of sales from all brisket served will be donated to the USO of Illinois.

Check out Real Urban BBQ owner Jeff Shapiro demonstrating burnt ends and talking about the event on WGN TV. Also tune into WVON AM 1690 this Saturday at 4:45PM where he’ll share his backyard ‘cue tips with host Paul Lisnek.

Active military and veterans must present valid military id.

For more information visit www.RealUrbanBBQ.com or call 224.770.4BBQ (4227).

About the USO of Illinois

The mission of the USO is to enhance the quality of life of the U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families and to create a cooperative relationship between U.S. military communities and involved or supporting civilian communities.

The USO of Illinois is a civilian 501(c)(3) registered non-profit that is not government funded but is supported solely by the generosity of the American people.

The USO of Illinois touches the lives of over 300,000 Active Duty, Guard and Reserve military and military families throughout Illinois and the Midwest region over 300 programs and services offered year-round that enhance the quality of their lives, lift morale and provide unique recreational, educational and cultural opportunities. The USO of Illinois is powered over 300 volunteers giving almost 20,000 hours of service annually.

The USO is chartered by Congress as a non-profit organization. It is not part of the U.S. government, but is recognized by the Department of Defense, Congress and President of the United States, who serves as Honorary Chairman of the USO.

About Real Urban Barbecue

Highland Park native Jeff Shapiro launched Real Urban Barbecue, located at 610 Central Avenue #177 in downtown Highland Park, after having worked for Lettuce Entertain You for 14 years at restaurants including Bones, RJ Grunts, Bub City, Pappagus and PJ Clarke’s. He most recently served for six years as director of operations of Carmichael’s Steak House in the West Loop.

Shapiro has been winning trophies in the BBQ competition circuit under the team name Dr. Deckle and Mr. Hide. For the past several years, well before “urban barbecue” became the trend it is today, Shapiro’s feverish passion has had him touring the major BBQ markets of Midwest, the Carolinas, Kansas, Kentucky, Tennessee and Oklahoma.

Real Urban Barbecue specializes in carry-out, catering orders and dine-in. The charming dining room seats a total of 100 guests, which includes private event space for 30 – 40 guests. The menu features homemade BBQ sauce and slow-smoked items like ribs, pulled pork, turkey, brisket and chicken slowly rotated on two Cookshack FEC300 smokers capable of smoking 600 lbs of meat daily

Follow on Twitter @RealUrbanBBQ and become a fan on Facebook.

Hours are Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sunday from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Donald Trump's Celebrity Apprentice Star Lil Jon_Molise PR Chicago Public Relations

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May 032011

What? Ye-aah, OKaay! With the circus surrounding Donald Trump‘s bid for world domination, we’re honored to be publicizing one of his Celebrity Apprentice top cast members: the King of Crunk. Our Molise PR client Enclave nightclub welcomes party mogul, Lil’ Jon for a special DJ performance on Saturday, May 14, 2011.

Best known for Hot 100 hits such as “Get Low,” “What U Gon’ Do,” and “Lovers & Friends,” as well as numerous chart-topping collaborations with fellow southern rap superstars including Usher and Ludacris, Lil’ Jon has what it takes to get the crowd crunk. Currently, he is also bringing his signature swagger to network prime time as he competes on this season of NBC’s “Celebrity Apprentice.”

RSVP in advance for free admission before 11 p.m., or cover starts at $20 at the door. For more information or to RSVP visit www.EnclaveChicago.com or call (312) 654-0234. Enclave doors open at 9 p.m.

Brandon Carone Hosts Benefit for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

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Apr 252011

See Black and white at the EnV White Party on Friday, May 6 from 7 – 11 p.m. on the indoor/outdoor rooftop of EnV Luxury Apartments, 161 W. Kinzie St. The evening will feature a stunning, live performance by Dan Black atop a custom glass stage over the rooftop pool.

EnV Luxury Apartments rooftop

Tickets are $50 per guest and proceeds go to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society via the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society 2011 Man of the Year Campaign candidate, darling dimpled friend and event host, Brandon Carone.

Guests clad in white will sip on Belvedere cocktails and dine on hors d’oeuvres from Catered by Design, plus special tastings from Mercadito and Bridge Bar. Shop luxury accessories and clothes at eDrop-Off’s exclusive pop-up shop, browse Astor & Black’s trunk show of new summer fabrics from Scabal and Zegna, and lavish in spa treatments by Leah Chavie Skincare Boutique.

An exclusive after-party will follow at Cuvée, 308 W. Erie St., at 11 p.m., with trolley transportation provided.

To purchase tickets visit: http://ticketing.fanfueled.com/Event/Details/287-the-env-white-party-featuring-a-live-performance-by-dan-black

All proceeds go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s 2011 Man of the Year Campaign helps in the fight against leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Donations are accepted through May 20, 2011 at http://il.mwoy.llsevent.org/BrandonCarone.

From the Archives, 2010: Welcome Home Stanley!

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Apr 252011

Here’s a re-post from the archives as we head into Game 7 of Blackhawks vs. Canucks.

June 14, 2010:
I’ve had quite a ride working in “National Championship” cities. I launched my career in entertainment at the Breslin Center, during which time the Michigan State University basketball team earned the nice, shiny trophy. Then I moved east to work for Olympia Entertainment, the operating arm of the Detroit Red Wings during their Stanley Cup streak. The year I hopped over to do marketing for the Detroit Free Press, the Pistons sent me a mini-trophy to thank me for our partnership when they ultimately took the crown from the Lakers. In 2005, I moved to Chicago just before the fervor of the White Sox win.

But having moved here from Hockeytown, I was shocked by the near-vacant halls of the United Center during home Blackhawks games. Witnessing the team turn around over the past three seasons, gain back this fiercely loyal sports town, and finally bring home Stanley last week… this was perhaps the most thrilling of all championship wins. I was raised on the game of hockey, complete with hosed down, backyard skating rinks. It is great to see millions of new people embrace this icy sport in the Windy City. Congrats to the team, and to the city, For The Win.

-Michelle

Stan Bowman, GM of Blackhawks, lends namesake Stanley Cup to Molise PR client Imerman Angels. Michelle Molise pictured here.

Warlock Charlie Sheen Visits Enclave Nightclub-Chicago PR Blog

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Mar 282011

Charlie Sheen

Writing press releases is a daily occurrence here at the ole Molise PR office. A few years ago, I thought I’d reached the end of the “diverse projects” spectrum when I localized the release for the theatrical tour of “Barbie Live in Fairytopia.” But today may take the cake. Here’s the body of the release for, duh, Charlie Sheen’s appearance at Enclave this Sunday:

Trolls need not apply. On Sunday, April 3, the man who has coined more catchphrases than any other will host the official after party of his Violent Torpedo of Truth tour at Enclave nightclub (220 W. Chicago Ave.). The actor, producer, director, and most importantly, self-proclaimed Warlock has starred in such films as Platoon and Hot Shots, plus small screen hits like Spin City and the top-rated Two and a Half Men. Guests will join Charlie Sheen while sipping tiger blood cocktails and mingling with local goddesses.

Tickets start at $30 for general admission or $60 for bi-winning VIPs (includes express entry, cocktail reception from 9 – 10:30, and 10 VIP ticket buyers will be randomly selected to WIN a Meet & Greet with Charlie Sheen), and can be purchased at www.EnclaveChicago.com/winning. For more information call (312) 654-0234. Enclave doors open at 9 p.m.

About Enclave

Since 2005 Enclave has rooted itself as Chicago’s premier nightclub, playing host to celebrities, in recent months including Ke$ha, Usher, Jeremih, Black Eyed Peas, Cali Swag District, Clinton Sparks, Kevin Dillon from HBO’s Entourage, Brody Jenner, Far East Movement and more. Other celeb guests have included Jamie Foxx, Josh Duhamel, Shia LaBeouf, Patrick Dempsey, Vince Vaughn, Cuba Gooding Jr., principle cast members from HBO’s True Blood, Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian, Paris Hilton, Ron Jeremy, Bill Maher, Bethany Frankel and Carmen Electra. Musician guests include Lady Gaga, Tommy Lee, Akon, Lil Kim, R Kelly, Sean Kingston, Kid Rock, Ne-Yo, Dave Navarro, Keri Hilson, Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson, Mickey Avalon, Cisco and Shwayze, Rev Run, Scott Weiland, the late DJ AM, DJ Spider, DJ Homicide and countless others. The roster of notable athletes includes Derek Jeter, Michael Jordan, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Dennis Rodman, Anna Kournikova, Ronaldinho, Jim McMahon, and countless Chicago pros like Derrick Rose, Alfonzo Soriano, Patrick Kane and Devin Hester. Enclave’s parent group Downtown Entertainment has also served the community by donating the venue to fundraising and awareness events for non-profits like the annual Imerman Angels “Spring Fling,” Children’s Memorial Hospital “Snow Ball,” GenArt Chicago “Fresh Faces,” CHAI Haiti “Music for a Cause,” Starlight Starbright’s Children’s Foundation’s “Dream Date Charity Auction,” and the Winter Gala for Keep a Child Alive, co-founded by Alicia Keys. With two levels, three bars, staging, state-of-the art sound and lighting and other amenities, the 15,000 sq. ft. venue is ideally situated for corporate events. Past power clients include Nikon, AOL, Edelman, Yahoo, Nike, Google, Kohler, Reebok, AT&T and more.

-Michelle Molise

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