Microsoft SOAR Americas Party

The challenge

Microsoft was looking to host a memorable evening reception as the finale of their START Conference, designed around the theme “SOAR”—a celebration of ambition and limitless potential. The goal was to create an unforgettable celebration, marking the end of the conference with a high-energy, immersive experience. The reception had to inspire and engage the audience, ensuring the theme was at the forefront while providing a seamless transition from the conference’s formal proceedings into a fun, dynamic close. This was the perfect opportunity for guests to decompress after the content of the conference, allowing them to be sociable and build connections.

The solution

emc3 delivered a full transformation of the Hyatt Regency ballroom space, bringing the “SOAR” theme to life through thoughtful decor and branding that created an immersive environment. The evening kicked off with an opening moment that featured a high-energy video created by our in-house design team to welcome attendees, the visuals were timed to the live performance by the Party Crashers band, setting the tone for the evening.

To further captivate the audience, we introduced the Air Elite Dunkers—a troupe of aerial trampolinists who stunned guests with acrobatic basketball stunts, perfectly complementing the event’s flying and soaring motif. Drinks and canapés were served, and the dance floor was buzzing throughout the night. Every element, from decor to performances, was crafted to ensure attendees were fully engaged, creating a seamless and exhilarating conclusion to the conference.

The results

The objectives were to create a sense of inspiration and celebration, and to nail the theme, and the packed dance floor and attendee feedback confirms the event did just that! Although ROI data isn’t available to share, Microsoft’s goals were met and the evening was a memorable celebration reaffirming that the START Conference was not only a learning experience but a platform to inspire ambition and foster innovation. Attendees were fully immersed in the experience. The combination of creative visuals and high-energy entertainment left a lasting impression and set the benchmark for future conference closing parties.

The testimonial

“Thank you so much for our amazing Americas Kickoff party to close out MCAPS Start!

I had such a fun time and have continually heard that our party was the best out of all the parties! Your creativity and attention to detail was evident – you took an ordinary space and transformed it into something extraordinary with many memorable moments throughout the evening.

I heard from Joanne and Erin that the journey from the early planning phases to the execution on the day was flawless, and that you managed every detail and pivoted with calmness and a constant smile which makes for such a great experience.

Thank you for your contributions, and please pass on my thanks to the rest of the teams involved!” — Deb Cupp, President, Microsoft Americas