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VIP

Maks & Val Tour 2016: The VIP Experience

#vipnation

As I suspected when I first heard about this tour the Maks & Val Tour VIP Experience is truly special. Many other artists could learn a thing or two from them and how to make a fan’s experience one they will never forget.

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This article is on the Ultimate Package which included:

One premium reserved ticket in the front row – sit front and center!
Twenty minute backstage Meet & Greet with Maks and Val in their dressing room
Backstage toast with Maks and Val in their dressing room, including your own Our Way champagne flute to take home

Intimate Photo Op with Maks and Val in their dressing room taken with a professional camera

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Custom 5×7 Our Way leather picture frame with your printed and signed Meet & Greet photo delivered to your seat
Access to pre-show VIP Party, including:
Green screen photo booth to capture additional photos of yourself at the VIP Party
One (1) drink ticket for the pre-show lounge (beer, wine, soft drinks)
Ultimate VIP Meet & Greet laminate
Autographed Tour Program with personalized dedication signed in front of you
Exclusive Maks and Val gift item
Pre-show merchandise shopping opportunity
On-site VIP host & ticket pick-up

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If you want to see the breakdown of the various packages which were at various price points please see the pre-tour blog I did:

http://lightscmemories.com/vip/maks-val-chmerkovskiys-way-summer-tour-2016-maksandval-ourwaytour/

Right away it started off good, I received my instructional email about 5 days ahead of the show and we have to arrive 3 hours ahead for both of the shows I attended. It was very detailed and included all the important details. I appreciated that because it showed they were respecting your time, some VIP events you have to get there 4-5 hours ahead and you stand and wait. Maks, Val & VIP Nation did this right!

Upon arrival the process was very organized, you sign in, get the appropriate package and laminate and you were directed to the VIP party area. Once everyone was checked in I was thrilled to see everything started happening and there was not a lot of standind around and waiting. They also gave very clear directions and specifically said to pleasae not bring your cell phones into the area and ask for selfies that a professional photo would be taken. The guys came in 15 minutes later and headed to the designated photo box after waving hello. This automatically got a thumbs up from me. I loved that they had a nice private area so you didn’t have 200+ people all staring at you while you had your photo/meet & greet. While you were waiting you could get your photo taken on the green screen which was nice to have for the memory.

Once it was your turn you entered the photo box, had your special moment with them and then Anthony would take your photo. I know I am always saying it but, they are truly the absolute kindest, sweetest, talented and most humble men. They put in the effort to make each fans experience special and they do not rush it. It’s not a photo assembly line type of event it’s a genuine interaction. This is something all the VIP packages were able to do which is great! After the guys completed the photos they stepped out, thanked everyone for coming and said they truly hoped everyone enjoyed the show.

After the photos were done you could take advantage of the crowd free merchandise shopping or just hang out at the party. If you had the ultimate package you were escorted by the VIP host & security down to Maks & Val’s dressing room. This was such a small intimate group which makes it truly special. You enter the room, sit down, receive your champagne flute and just sit and visit with Maks & Val for 20 minutes. I seriously cannot say enough of the experience and the fact they would provide individuals with this type of access. They genuinely want to get to know their fans and it shows in all that they do. While you are in the room they autograph the tour program for you and the special frame that you get with this package. After the time is up the VIP host takes another photo of you and the guys and that gets printed and delivered to you in the frame at the intermission of the show.

On that subject I have to give a huge shout out to the VIP Host: Anthony Jones. He is very nice and he gets all the photos posted very quickly which is what I define as WOW customer service. He is great about answering questions, making sure announcements are made and treats everyone with kindness and respect.

As far as the show itself I literally cannot say enough good about this tour, how it was put together, the amazing staff/tour family and you are left wishing it wasn’t over. To read my thoughts on the show you can go to this link: http://lightscmemories.com/entertainment-blog/maks-val-way-live-tour-2016/

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Final thoughts are…this is how a tour and VIP program should run. Your time is respected, you are treated with kindness & respect and you receive a genuine interaction and in the ultimate package a chance to really sit down and get to know Maks & Val. You absolutely receive value for your hard earned dollars that you spend for the experience.

For my looks please check out: http://shop.nordstrom.com/

I always bring my Coach Cross body or wristlets: http://coach.com

Until next time,

Xoxo

Heather

July 22, 2016

Entertainment Blog

Dancing with the Stars: Judges Dream Team Week

Dancing with the Stars: Judges Dream Team Week

#DWTS

#dwts22

Season 22/Week 8

Another AMAZING opening number by the Pro’s. It was so hot, creative and a fabulous way to kick off the show!

Nyle DiMarco & Peta Murgatroyd: Paso Doble
Music: “Victorious” by Panic at the Disco

#redefiningdance

With the team dance scores factored in Nyle and Peta ended up in first place last week. We find out right away that they are safe. They are going to try something in their dance to try to show people what it is like for Nyle to Peta 8 dance without hearing the music. This will be interesting. Nyle and Peta are always so amazing to watch.

The period where they cut the music was very powerful and really drove home what it is like for Nyle each week. I am sure it was even more so sitting in the studio audience. It made me sad for 13177215_1722869987925896_2380480704480100281_n a minute because music is such a huge part of my life, I can’t imagine not being able to hear it. I think the moment they provided the glimpse into Nyle’s life was worth the 10’s but, the actual rest of the dance I didn’t think was as strong as past dances but, I also thought maybe it might have been the music they had. That isn’t to take anything away from them, they are brilliant and blow me away every week.

Scores: 10-9-10 (29 out of 30)

Antonio Brown & Sharna Burgess: Viennese Waltz
Music: “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna

#teamboomin

I am glad that Antonio is really stepping it up and showing up earlier than Sharna. Antonio says there is a lot of comparison to hi Sharna 8 s football career. He knows how to rise from being the underdog.

There dance was good. Sharna always does really goo Ch-rAtWVEAAtPIl.jpg large d choreography. It was light, elegant, you could tell Antonio put in more effort on the details. The judges acknowledged that they can tell he is putting in more effort. Len acknowledged the improvement in his footwork as well.

Scores: 9-9-9 (27 out of 30)

Jodie Sweetin & Keo Motsepe: Jive
Music: “Something’s Got a Hold On Me” by Christina Aguilara

#teamMoSweet

Jodie thank you for handling the negative press the way you did. Keo you are a star, don’t let any of the negative press/comments get in your head. I have had the pleasure of meeting Keo a few times and have seen him dance numerous times, he is a true professional and really wants to succeed with Jodie. This season is filled with talent and we have seen each Jodie 8 star shine at different times.

Their dance was fantastic, it was fun, filled with content and very creative! I agree with the judges that Jodie’s light is shining bright! Keo really showed his creativity this week! They should be very proud of themselves for their performance tonight. I loved their pure exuberance when they heard the scores that was a classic happiness.

Scores: 10-10-10 (Perfect score!!!!)

Paige VanZant & Mark Ballas: Viennese Waltz
Music: “Stone Cold” by Demi Lovato

#teamPowRightInTheKisser

Paige and Mark are su Paige 8 ch a great match as partners. Loved hearing Paige talking with confidence. I will say I cringed a bit when Mark was describing his vision for this week. I am not a fan whe CeGvaQ3XIAE9fGo n Mark gets overly theatrical. Up until this point in the season I have been really enjoying it because he had toned a lot of that down. It’s just a matter of personal preference.

They did a beautiful dance. Paige is so talented and I truly think she deserves to be in the finals. The crowd loved it. Len noted a few minor items for improvement but, said she is a terrific dancer. Bruno and Carrie Ann both liked it.

Scores: 10-9-9 (28 out of 30)

Ginger Zee and Val Chmerkovskiy: Argentine Tango
Music: “Telephone” by Lady Gaga featuring Beyoncé

#teamGinandJuice

Ginger 8 I think we are in for one red hot dance from Ginger and Val tonight. Ginger has such a fun, bubbly personality that this character was challenging. I would have the same problem being th Val Good at serious. Loved Val’s advice during camera blocking you did the hard work, now enjoy it! You can tell how bad Ginger wants this and I love the two of them as partners.

Holy SMOKING hot! That dance was amazing! It had everything, passion, tension, content, heat, fire, clean lines, precision and it was perfection from start to finish! Ginger you look amazing too girl! I watched it 3 more times after! Absolutely amazing and the judges all LOVED it too!

Scores: 10-10-10 (PERFECT SCORE!)

Wanya Morris & Lindsay Arnold: Jive
Music: “Can You Do This” by Aloe Blacc

#teamyayazee

Wanya has lost o Wanya 8 ver 20lbs since starting on the show. They have a fun partnership and they clearly work well together. Lindsa Cep4rolWEAEOy_n.jpg large y is so creative and I love that she doesn’t play it safe.

The dance was fun, it had high energy, and it was creative. There were a few mistakes and when Wanya slipped he bounced back. You can’t get down on them though, things like that are bound to happen. It’s how you recover from them that matters. Wanya handles everything with the best attitude which is another reason he stands out. He takes it in stride. It was sad to see Lindsay to sad, you can tell they have truly formed a friendship.

Scores: 8-8-9 (25 out of 30)

Judges Dream Team Match Ups:

Team Bruno: Nyle/Peta & Jodie/Keo: Argentine Tango

#teambruno

I loved how creative that dance was and I love that Bruno took the risk to break down barriers and have the 2 girls dance and the 2 men dan Team Bruno ce together. Jodie and Nyle did a very good job dancing together and it shows how well rehearsed they were. Great job! The only part that I found distracting was having the troupe involved. I love the troupe dancers I just think in this arrangement it should have the two couples because it was distracting, I watched it back a 2^nd time and still felt that way.

Scores: 10-10-9 (29 out of 30)

Team Len: Ginger/Val & Lindsay/Wanya: Samba

#teamLen

Len that was super cute, cheeky, lighthearted, fun, lots of content and I thought they all did a great job! I love it when Len is able Team Len to show off his experience and creativity as a dancer. I thought Ginger and Wanya did a good job dancing together and the part where Val opened his shirt to show off his abs and Wanya showed off the glittered ab shirt was too funny.

Scores: 10-10-9 (29 out of 30)

Carrie Ann: Paige/Mark & Antonio/Sharna: Paso Doble

#teamCarrieAnn 529894366

Wow that was really, really good! I loved the intensity, it truly highlighted the athletic strength of Paige and Antonio! It was dynamic without being overly theatrical. The lift that Antonio did with Paige was amazing and beautiful. I really loved it.

Scores: 10-10-9 (29 out of 30)

Elimination Time:

Jeopardy:

Antonio/Sharna

Jodie/Keo

Wanya/Lindsay

Very sad we said goodbye to Jodie/Keo. I am so proud of them as a team and you both went out on a high note.

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Next week is DOUBLE ELIMINATION: VOTE, VOTE, and VOTE!

Also want to compliment the troupe each performance was amazing! Great job!

#maksandval #ourwaytour

Just a reminder if you want to get tickets to the HOTTEST tour this summer go to: http://www.maksandvaltour.com/ I will be blogging on the show and their various amazing VIP Packages this summer! It kicks off in 6 short weeks! To view the full pre-tour info please check out the article below.

Maks & Val Chmerkovskiy’s Our Way Tour 2016: #maksandval

VOTE by phone, Facebook and on abc.com to avoid future surprising eliminations.

Until next time,

Xoxoxo

Heather

May 10, 2016

VIP Experience Blog

Dancing with the Stars: Live Studio Audience #dwts

Dancing with the Stars: Live Studio Audience 4/18/16

#dwts

Make memories, don’t collect things…

About 10 years ago I had a friend from high school who tragically passed away from cancer far too soon and an Uncle that had saved his entire life to fulfill all of these dreams he had when he retired, he ended up with brain cancer and passed away before he had that chance. Those two deaths truly changed my outlook on life. You need to make memories, have experiences, make the most of every day because life changes in the blink of an eye.

I have been a viewer of Dancing with the Stars since season 1 and I had always hoped to one day be in the live audience. A cast member at the show kindly offered to give me tickets to the show and to say I was excited would be an understatement. I quickly determined who I wanted to take with me and made all the travel plans to get out to LA for the Switch Up week.

I arrived around 4:00 and went to the VIP check-in area. They verified we were on the list a Nyle nd told us what section we were in etc. At that point they take your cell phones from you and you are given a card to pick them up after the show. After that you go through a metal detector and they check your belongings. Once you are set with that you are escorted into the studio to your section and then to your assigned seats. It was such a surreal experience walking into the studio. It was much smaller than it looks on TV. We were seated on the 2^nd level, front row directly across from the judges table and the interview room was directly to my left. It was so exciting to actually be in the studio and to realize I would be able to see everything perfectly from where I was seated.

Not long after we were seated the various other groups were escorted to their seats. The Audience Coordinator that is in charge of the audience energy etc. invited us down to the dance floor for a brief dance party before the show started. As I was entering the dance floor area I nearly ran directly into Nyle DiMarco as he was trying to exit to the back of the studio. We were able to take photos with a camera if we wanted while we were on the dance floor. There was so much fun energy in the room I knew it would be a special
Paige night. After the 2 or 3 songs ended they asked us to take our seats.

Once everyone was back in their seats they rehearsed the opening number and the Audience Coordinator told us he would be telling us when to clap, cheer etc. and said they wanted to see a ton of energy out of us since the last two weeks they felt it was lacking a bit. The energy in the room now was palpable, I was beyond excited for the show to start. A few minutes later we were told to start yelling and clapping as loud as we could and the show started live. The opening number was absolutely amazing, full of energy and just flawless. One interesting thing I noticed right away is it’s absolutely impossible for you to hear what Tom and Erin are saying in the studio because it is so loud. When they are playing the packages that you see on TV they are running on two screens in the studio, one above the stairs to the main stage and then another in the back so their truly isn’t a bad seat in the house. On the 2^nd level there was only 2 rows and I am pretty sure the 3^rd level was the same. Another amazing thing that you see live is the set change outs. They truly hustle to get those sets torn down and the new ones in within minutes on commercial breaks, I can only imagine how much more complicated it is on Disney week.

The judges were all so funny. It was nice to have Maks on as guest judge. I have read a lot of thoughts and comments about h Maks is guest spot and I will say my opinion is he was hard on some because he knows they can do better. He has won the show, he knows what it takes along with all of his years of dance experience.

On commercial breaks they were doing trivia questions with the audience and it was nice to see how each of the couples gets in the zone so to speak ahead of their performance. Some would stay loose, others would practice portions of their dances and others appeared to be running through their routi Sharna ne in their heads. The beauty and pure emotion of some of the dances are just that much more intense in the live audience. Nyle and Sharna’s dance for example had me in tears because you couldn’t help but, feel the emotion of every movement. It’s a bit different than watching it at home. The studio was actually a bit warm too which was a little surprising to me, I had always heard studios were more on the chilly side but, that’s probably for the safety of the pros/stars.

After the live show was over (it went SO fast), we were asked to stay in our seats because they were going to film the opening dance for week 7. The pros had to go change to get ready for that and you could see the stars mingle a bit with their friends/family that had been in the audience that night. After about 20 minutes the pros took the stage and did two takes for the opening number. I don’t want to give away too much on that so it won’t spoil it when you watch. Once that w Ginger as done we all exited and got into this long line to get our cell phones back. For more on what I thought on the dances please check out my weekly blog.

As a guest of someone on the show we had special access after the show to go back and say hello/thank you etc. I have met most of the pros on the various tours over the years and I cannot say enough about down to earth, genuine, kind and talented they all are. It was nice to run into Sharna, Brittany, Hayley, Alan, Maks, Val and Keo. The stars that I came in contact with were also very nice. Paige is stunningly beautiful and is having a gre Alan at time on the show. Kim is so sweet and just radiates happiness. Nyle is even better looking in person, beyond handsome and Ginger is seriously the absolute nicest person. Her husband Ben is incredibly funny and they really are the cutest couple. I also saw Doug Flutie but, didn’t want to ask for a picture because he was with his friends and family at the time and already had quite a few people waiting for him. He seemed to be very kind to each person he was interacting with.

If you ever have a chance to be a part of the live studio audience for either this show or another show that may be your personal favorite, I would highly recommend the experience. It’s just such a fun ene Kim rgy to be a part of the audience. The dances are amazing on TV but, the emotion in person truly is palpable. I will never forget this amazing experience and I am so thankful to have had the opportunity.

What was I wearing:

Dress: http://www.bebe.com/Dresses/All-Dresses/Va-Va-Voom-Flared-Dress/pc/197/c/0/sc/198/107732.pro?refinementValueIds=1756,

Hair: http://www.thedrybar.com/

Makeup: http://www.maccosmetics.com/

If you have any questions please feel free to ask….

Until next Val and Heather time,

Xoxo

Heather

April 25, 2016

VIP Experience Blog

Maks & Val Chmerkovskiy’s Our Way Tour 2016: #maksandval

Maks & Val Chmerkovskiy’s Our Way Summer Tour 2016:

#maksandval

#ourwaytour

Sure to be the HOTTEST tour of the summer! Don’t miss out!

One of the things I will be covering a lot on this site is highlighting truly fantastic experiences put together by various artists. If you have not already bought your tickets for what I know will be THE dance tour of the summer you need to today before tickets sell out near you!

If you think you know Maks & Val from Dancing with the Stars that is only a part of their amazing journey proving that with a dream, hard work, dedication, perseverance, humility and a strong support system you can make dreams come to life.

The tour will be an autobiographical piece on their life story and I am sure will keep the audiences on the edge of their seats. If you were ever able to see their show SWAY in the past you would have seen they truly can make a story come to life through dance and bring intense emotion, passion and energy. As an audience member you feel like you just went on a journey with them.

Per Maks and Val from their site www.maksandvaltour.com

Maksim Chmerkovskiy commented, “Val and I have pushed each other to be better dancers every day since we were kids, and this show will fulfill a lifetime dream to perform on the same stage together across the country. We want to connect with our audience and take the performance to a whole new level. There will be no holding back on this tour.”

Valentin Chmerkovskiy commented, “The essence of this show will be the story of two brothers and the passion we have for life, family, opportunity and, of course, dance,” “It will be the most honest we’ve ever been to an audience. We want to entertain with incredible choreography and inspire while sharing our story, our way.”

In addition to standard tickets which start around $45-49 per ticket depending on the venue they have truly come up with the most fantastic VIP packages I have ever seen offered by any tour/artist. Its unparalleled access and they truly created a once in a lifetime experience. Below are images of what comes with each package. I will be covering this over the summer as I attend shows and giving my insight. I hope other tours take notice and also up their game because the way Maks & Val are doing this is truly the Diamond Standard and worth every cent.

What I also think is great is they have various VIP options and price points, all of which allow a Meet & Greet and individual photo with them. Below is the information from the website and where you can go to buy your VIP Packages: https://vipnation.com/tours/maks-amp-val/maks-amp-val-live-on-tour-our-way/d2ffc311d0fffb70e3483c94904da45eVwD2BFV%3D

Ultimate Front Row and Meet & Greet:

$1000*: This is an INCREDIBLE package! Front row, 20 min backstage, signed M&G framed photo and so much more!

*Prices may vary slightly by location.

One premium reserved ticket in the front row – sit front and center!
Twenty minute backstage Meet & Greet with Maks and Val in their dressing room
Backstage toast with Maks and Val in their dressing room, including your own Our Way champagne flute to take home
Intimate Photo Op with Maks and Val in their dressing room taken with a professional camera
Custom 5×7 Our Way leather picture frame with your printed and signed Meet & Greet photo delivered to your seat
Access to pre-show VIP Party, including:
Green screen photo booth to capture additional photos of yourself at the VIP Party
One (1) drink ticket for the pre-show lounge (beer, wine, soft drinks)
Ultimate VIP Meet & Greet laminate
Autographed Tour Program with personalized dedication signed in front of you
Exclusive Maks and Val gift item
Pre-show merchandise shopping opportunity
On-site VIP host & ticket pick-up

Front Row VIP Meet & Greet Package:

$525 Front Row ticket, photo and more!

*Prices may vary slightly by location.

One premium reserved ticket in the front row
Meet & Greet and individual Photo Op with Maks & Val taken with a professional camera
Access to pre-show VIP Party, including:
Green screen photo booth to capture additional photos of yourself at the VIP Party
One (1) drink ticket for the pre-show lounge (beer, wine, soft drinks)
VIP Meet & Greet laminate
Autographed Tour Program
Exclusive Maks and Val gift item
Pre-show merchandise shopping opportunity
On-site VIP host & ticket pick-up

Gold VIP Meet & Greet Package:

$400 Great seats & a Meet & Greet photo with Maks & Val.

*Prices may vary slightly by location.

One premium reserved ticket in rows 2 through 4
Meet & Greet and individual Photo Op with Maks & Val taken with a professional camera
Access to pre-show VIP Party, including:
Green screen photo booth to capture additional photos of yourself at the VIP Party
One (1) drink ticket for the pre-show lounge (beer, wine, soft drinks)
VIP Meet & Greet laminate
Tour Program
Exclusive Maks and Val gift item
Pre-show merchandise shopping opportunity
On-site VIP host & ticket pick-up

Silver VIP Meet & Greet Package:

$300 Excellent seats & a Meet & Greet photo with Maks & Val.

*Prices may vary slightly by location.

One premium reserved ticket in rows 5 through 20
Meet & Greet and individual Photo Op with Maks & Val taken with a professional camera
Access to pre-show VIP Party, including:
Green screen photo booth to capture additional photos of yourself at the VIP Party
One (1) drink ticket for the pre-show lounge (beer, wine, soft drinks)
VIP Meet & Greet laminate
Tour Program
Exclusive Maks and Val gift item
Pre-show merchandise shopping opportunity
On-site VIP host & ticket pick-up

Over the years I have attended several tours and purchased many VIP packages. This tour will go down into the record books, I have no doubt as being the most successful, moving and inspiring dance tour! With these special packages fans will walk away feeling appreciated truly having a once in a lifetime experience with Maks & Val.

I have met them both and they are sweet, kind, smart, talented, driven and so humble. They truly should be incredibly proud of what they have created and I know I am personally counting the days until my first show!

Buy your tickets and packages today at: http://www.maksandvaltour.com/

Tour will start June 15^th in Florida and run for 2 months!

Follow @lightscmemories on twitter/IG and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lightscmemories/ for more!

Until next time,

Xoxo

Heather

April 16, 2016

Entertainment Blog

Jon Bon Jovi Nashville 3/19/16

Jon Bon Jovi Nashville

Runaway Tours Trip

I was so excited to be back in one of my favorite cities this past weekend. It was great to see so many friends from around the world that I have met over the years through Bon Jovi events. Crazy it had been almost 5 months since the last time we were together.

This was my 19^th Runaway Tours trip. They have improved so much since my first one back in 2011. Back then you had to be in a big group photo with 8-10 other people you didn’t know. Now you get a photo with JBJ based on how many are in your room, single, double and sometimes triple depending on the options they give you. This trip included 2 nights hotel stay (there was also a no hotel option), a welcome party, bus to/from the venue, the show, a photo with JBJ grouped by room, a great signed photo that I will treasure which looked like it was from last fall’s mini tour and a small zip up bag with the Runaway Tours logo on it.

The welcome party was a lot of fun and I noticed they definitely improved the food spread for this trip. The 1^st night parties are always a lot of fun, everyone is so excited for the next day, gives you a good chance to meet new people and we dance/sing all night to Jovi music.

The next day we were on our own to explore the city. We went down and did some shopping and had lunch on Broadway and I purchased my first pair of cowboy boots. I couldn’t get over how comfortable they were. One personal wish of mine on the trips would be instead of or in addition to doing the 2^nd night party, organize a tour of the city all together or in Nashville the Country Music Hall of Fame or something like that as a big group. That would allow more time to get to know people instead of just being off in your groups of friends and it would be better for new trip people to meet others.

We met up at meeting time to board the buses to the venue and of course everyone was excited as usual. I decided to dress down and be casual this time as it seems I am always in a dress. This time I wore a plaid shirt http://www.nordstrom.com/, jeans http://www.luckybrand.com/ and boots http://www.bootbarn.com/. It was quite cold and windy in Nashville that day and I was wishing I had my winter coat. We got there and all were told to line up. Problem was it was freezing & the wind was going right through you and we waited in that weather for a good 20-30 minutes. That is my one personal pet peeve as you will see in other posts. When you either buy a VIP Pkg or spend the kind of money you do for these special trips I wish we were not left out in harsh weather conditions whether it be extreme heat or cold.

Another small comment to make which is not the fault of Runaway tours is a small group of us arrived and were not sure where to go and we went up to stand near the wall outside to try to block some of the wind. This was at the Cannery Ballroom. I am not sure if he was the owner or maybe head bouncer, but he was beyond rude to a friend of mine. Instead of being considerate to the weather conditions he said either you go out there and wait by the fence or you will not be allowed in my establishment. My point on this is, these are new customers to your venue that paid a substantial amount of money to do this trip. He would have gotten a lot further with a comment like I am very sorry, I understand it is freezing outside but, if you can go line up we will get you inside as fast as possible. Kindness goes a long way.

Once we got into the venue the excitement really grew. This event included a special acoustic performance and Q&A with Jon Bon Jovi, Lorenza Ponce, Bobby Bandiera, Carl Gentry and one new musician that I didn’t catch his name. Jon was in such a good mood and it was great to have some new questions instead of the typical boxers or briefs type. Jon did let us know that the record is done and is currently being mixed and should be released in the fall. It looks like as of now the tour will start early next year! That was exciting news and for many a relief as it gives more time to save money to do the shows they want on the tour. There is seriously nothing like a Bon Jovi concert. The energy is palpable but, more on that in future blogs.

The set list was great and I included an image of it for you all. I love the version of Bad Name JBJ does at these events and Livin on a Prayer gave me goosebumps it was so amazing! I love hearing the ballads too. I have been lucky enough to hear one of my all-time favorites on a few trips (Never Say Goodbye), this trip we were treated with Superman and Blind Love. Just breathtakingly beautiful.

Video Link(s)

Snippet of songs from Nashville: https://youtu.be/Z0rG1CrEU50

Superman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZ8-FHeGXdQ

Bad Name: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rt1cVUWnCeA

It’s My Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygZsTjb-e7M

Destination Anywhere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WI0bDki3IQ

Blind Love: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGVdqWZH8jM

Seat Next To You: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2YzBg9IyPY

When the performance ended we all line up for our pictures with JBJ. This is where I always tell friends or people that ask me to have the right expectations. This is a photo op not a meet and greet and they do go rather quickly. Every artist varies in the time you get with them in photo op. Jon is always so kind and I will admit this interaction made me smile and I am still smiling today. Usually the photos are posted in 3-5 days after a Runaway Trip. As soon as they get posted I will add it.

Once all the photos were done there was the after party at the venue. The food was very good that they had out this trip. We didn’t stay long at the after party but, it was pretty typical to past parties and the night before.

The next day we all sadly said until next time and flew home. I originally wasn’t going to go on this trip and I

changed my mind when I realized it was a good friend’s birthday and I wanted to be there to celebrate with her. I am very glad it worked out and I did attend. It was a one of those truly special trips that I will forever keep engrained in my memories.

Rob Fuzesi and his team truly did a great job on the Nashville trip.

They have two more trips currently on sale if you are interested http://www.runawaytours.com/

Don Henley in Dallas (April 30-May 2)

Florida Georgia Line & Jon Bon Jovi along with the iheart Country Festival in Austin (April 29-May 1)

JBJ in Dublin Ireland (July 21-23rd)

One suggestion I would love to see implemented for tour travel companies is a loyalty program. Wouldn’t it be so cool to say after you have done 50 trips you get something like a meet and greet or x period of time with JBJ, at 100 trips you get xyz. That would make people really want to go on a lot of trips to achieve that status/rewards. Very similar to how cruise lines, airlines have reward programs and how Aerosmith does their concert tickets. Similar to the Keith Urban 100 club concept which I will also cover in a future blog.

Until next time,

Xoxo

Heather

JBJ Nashville

March 23, 2016

VIP Experience Blog

Nick Carter

Nick Carter’s VIP is recommended, could be A+ with Changes by Wonderful Union

March 2016

Nick Carter VIP This was my first time seeing Nick Carter in concert. I sadly wasn’t able to make the dates work when he was touring with Jordan Knight in the past. I really enjoyed watching Nick on Dancing with the Stars and since he was coming to Raleigh decided to check him out.

Entering the VIP: We had to be at the venue insanely early compared to other VIP’s I have done in the past…3 pm (show started at 8pm). We waited in line for well over an hour before staff came to check us in. Approximately 4:30 we entered the venue and were treated to a sound check by Nick and the band. It was great he even took a fan suggestion and did Nirvana. After sound check we lined up for our photos. Nick gets a two thumbs up from me on his photo experience. He greeted every single fan with a big hug, asked people their names and chatted with them. You were not just in a photo assembly line. He sincerely made you feel appreciated. After the photos we had to exit the venue again and wait around until early entry at 6:45.

Suggestions for the Wonderful Union team: Do not make such an early arrival time if you are not planning to check people in for over an hour after that time. The extreme frustration I heard while waiting in line from several fans was that they arrived very early that day hoping for front row. They had it at sound check but, then with the photos happening after they lost their prime front spot. My suggestion would be give everyone numbered wrist bands or # the VIP laminates as they check in and that is the order they will line up for entry into the venue later that night as well. That makes it fair to those that waited in line extra early. It would also have allowed the VIP’s to leave for the 1.5-2 hours in between the experience with Nick and the door open time to go and grab a bite to eat without the pressure of having to stand in line. Also have security when the doors open enforce the line/numbered situation. It was truly not fair that about 25-30 waited in line the 1.5-2 hours and then had all of these other people from the back just start pushing in and cutting the line. Lastly, the photo equipment or distance for the photos needs to be improved. They did not come out very clear and crisp whether it was the original shot or zoomed in when you compare it to other VIP pictures.

Suggestions to the Ritz Venue: General admission shows can be tough. I think if you have a show though where there is an early entry VIP look into putting the metal barricades up or something to keep the VIP’s from being pushed, shoved etc. when the general public enters. I had 4 different people around me that were also VIP’s that got physically pushed out of their spots and they gave up and went upstairs.

Last thoughts: The show itself was great. Nick wasn’t feeling well as he mentioned at the sound check but, he truly performed fantastic. He left me wanting more. Nick also does something really nice for his fans, if you purchase $100 in merchandise you get a selfie with him after the show. I am not sure if this is done at all venues but, thought it was a great opportunity. That was a really nice benefit to offer to your fans that might not have been able to afford the VIP or for those that did the VIP that wanted that selfie after.

Nick Carter with Heather Donovan I took two videos at the show, the links are below if you want to check them out:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZNvmxb3OJg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y25goA8A8oM

Final Verdict: Nick in concert, his parts of the VIP A++. Highly recommend after changes by Wonderful Union!

For more photos you can go to my twitter or Instagram: @lightscmemories and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lights-Camera-Memories-935628749847172/?ref=hl

Until Next Time,

xoxo

Heather

March 13, 2016

VIP Experience Blog

Dancing with the Stars

As I noted in my Aerosmith blog, I do multiple VIPs a year. And as that same blog showed, multiple at times for groups as well. I’ve had the pleasure of being a VIP for the last three Dancing with the Stars tours. From the first tour I participated in the VIP to this year’s tour I must say: It’s like night and day! They have improved them tremendously for this year’s Dance All Night Tour.

Entering the VIP: In 2014 the experience was Okay, it was great to meet the dancers, and you got a group picture and then could do a selfie with the top package. I opted for a selfie with Val because he has always been one of my favorites since he first appeared on the show. You could also get a photo holding the mirror ball trophy. It was a very rushed experience overall and there was no party included. All the dancers were very kind and welcoming.

Summer 2015 I did VIP again and it was a pretty similar experience as the prior one.

Now this year they put together a stellar VIP Program. As with the past you had various different levels which basically the differences were the seat location at the show and what you received in the VIP Gift Bag. I chose the front row option for all of the shows I attended so I received the signed tour program, tote bag and mug.

Now on to the good stuff! This time they had a pre-party so they had a video playing that was put together by the dancers about dance styles, how they prepare for tour, what happens backstage etc. In addition to the photo with four of the pros/celebrity they had two of the dance troupe/company dancers that would mingle at the party and stand at the green screen and take additional photos with those in attendance. This was great because it allowed you to meet the dancers and actually have some conversations and get to know them a bit. The value they added to their VIP this year did not go unnoticed. They also had one of the best VIP Staff members from VIP Nation on the tour: Kristin McLeod. She was so friendly at every interaction, she had photos posted in almost all cases within 24 hours, she truly understands what VIP Package purchasers want and really hit it out of the park every show.

The experience with the Pro’s/Celebrity at the photo op is always great, they are all so sweet, welcoming, engaging and you can truly tell they enjoy meeting fans of the show. Way to go DWTS Tour and VIP Nation for the Dance All Night Tour VIP! Perfect 10!

Final Verdict: Do I recommend the Dancing with the Stars VIP, 110% yes with what they included for this year’s tour, they did a huge improvement and the value they added is exactly what they needed to do!

Word is the Dancing with the Stars tour will be taking this summer off, but they will be back in the winter. I hope they keep the great package they did this time for the next tour.

For my followers that love DWTS I will be covering the Maks and Val tour this summer, they have one of the best VIP Pkgs I have ever seen offered by ANY artist on their tour. If you don’t have tickets yet, you can get them at: http://www.maksandvaltour.com/

As always for more pictures from the tour please go to my Instagram page @lightscmemories or FB: https://www.facebook.com/Lights-Camera-Memories-935628749847172/?ref=hl

Until Next Time,

Xoxo

Heather

March 7, 2016

VIP Experience Blog

AEROSMITH

Steven Tyler & Joe Perry

September 2014, July 2015

I have had the pleasure of doing two Aerosmith VIP Packages. The first one was in Bristow, Virginia in September 2014 and the second was in Las Vegas in July 2015.

Steven Tyler is without a doubt one of the best in the biz. He is so kind and welcoming when you met him. He will look you straight in the eye, ask you your name and you can just tell he genuinely cares about who he is meeting. Like I always tell people go into these experiences with the right expectations.

Entering the VIP: This is a photo opportunity not a meet and greet. You have very limited time however one of the positives for Aerosmith VIP is they don’t insanely rush you so you can say hello, shake hands, say a few words etc. They truly make sure each fan gets a good experience and VALUE for their money and you are not just a # in a 5-10 second assembly line. They also make it private so you are not being stared at by everyone else waiting in line, you step behind a curtain and have your moment, get your photo taken and then you step out.

Suggestions for the staff: Be aware of the set up and the weather. The Bristow experience was a scorcher. Everyone in the VIP was asked to stand in line for the Q&A portion under the hot sun. This left the majority dripping in sweat, and knowing the photo opportunity was still to come – not feeling very pretty. Slight cover of the amphitheater offered some resolve though a little too late. Dripping in sweat, not feeling very pretty, doesn’t feel very VIP either.

The other would be to post the photos in a timely matter. Let’s face it we all want to and are excited to see our photos. The Bristow event I was seriously so impressed and left with a WOW feeling because our pictures were posted while we were at the show. The Las Vegas show had a completely opposite experience. Photos took 11 days to post along with multiple calls from a variety of fans. Fans realize that VIP staff and photographers are busy but, when shows after yours are posted and you are still waiting for your pictures it takes away from the overall value of the experience. As someone who does a fair amount of these a year I would say 2-3 days max should be the norm. Many I have done this year have had them up within 24 hours.

Final Verdict: Overall, I recommend the Aerosmith VIP experience. It is a good value for your dollar, you get a great seat at the show, the picture, autographed photo and the usual merchandise etc. In 2015 they offered different VIP Packages which I thought was great, if you loved a different member of the band you could sign up for their event and each one was a little different.

In conclusion, Steven Tyler is one of the best and his kindness will truly make you feel so special.

For more pics from the shows visit my Instagram page: @lightscmemories.

Until Next Time,

Xoxo

Heather

October 7, 2015

VIP Experience Blog

Luke Bryan

Luke Bryan has a very good VIP program.

I was lucky enough to win a meet and greet for the first Raleigh, North Carolina show. He is incredibly nice and what a great experience to meet him in person. Like many country artists, Luke has a fan club entry to win his meet and greets.

I understand why a lot of country artists do this: accessible for all fans vs. only those who can afford it. That makes the process a great thing.

Entering the VIP: You get your ticket, some merchandise (cup, guitar pics, mini-lunch type zip bag) and a 2-3 song acoustic set and some finger snacks. The VIP area is very intimate and Luke performs really well. Hearing “Strip it Down” acoustic was so beautiful…I had goosebumps.

Suggestions for his staff: Number the wristbands given out when you enter and possibly allow groups of 50 in at a time. But when it’s time to enter the acoustic tent area, make them line up in order by bracelet number. That will seriously cut down on the insane running that occurs and keeps it fair, if you get there on time you go in first. Tim McGraw’s VIP staff does that and it works very well. Plus who wants to have to run like crazy to get into an event when you were among the first 20 in line? One other suggestion would be to offer a limited # of VIP tickets for purchase to compliment the fan club meet and greet contest. I know a few friends of mine would love to meet Luke but, have not been lucky enough to win yet and with Luke’s ever growing popularity it will be harder.

Final Verdict: Definitely recommend.

September 7, 2015

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