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#vipnation

VIP Experience Blog

DWTS VIP A Night to Remember Winter Tour 18-19

DWTS VIP A Night to Remember Winter Tour 17-18

#dwtstour

#dwtsvip

#dwtstour

I’ve had the pleasure of being a VIP for the last seven 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! So let’s talk about the details of the VIP!

#dwtstour

Pre-Show: For my 1st show in Columbia I did the2nd Row VIP Pkg we received the email 5 days ahead of the show.  We had to arrive between 4:00-5:00 but,remember that varies by city so check your itinerary.  Once we signed in I got my ticket, but, therest of the VIP items were not ready for us so they said they would be mailingthem to us.  VIP Host this tour isAmanda.

Entering VIP & the good stuff!:   As soon as we signed in we were directed downstairs to the party room. We waited until around 5:30 for the Pro’s to come in.  The party room was pretty much the same as last tour with tables, a bar for drinks, a green screen/photo option.  We didn’t have our laynards yet so they gave us wristbands with a group # on them and they lined us up in groups of 10.  Britt & Bandon came in to mingle, talk & do selfie’s.  Artem, Bobby, Emma & Sasha were in the photo.  I still felt like it was fast like last year and truly wish they would slow it down a bit like in the early years. 

I will be doing my tracker like in past years!  Here is the link. 

http://lightscmemories.com/entertainment-blog/dwts-tour-2018-19-a-night-to-remember-vip-photo-tracker/
#dwtstour

The VIP Nation staff is also very kind, nobody is yelling at you it’s a pleasant experience.  You do have to leave your purse, bags and anything else on you at the table and you cannot ask for autographs etc. at the cast photo portion.   This year too it was two professional photos taken by VIP Nation host, no selfie options in the main photo.  You could however do selfies with the dancers in the Meet & Mingle.  After the photos were done and the dancers all left to get ready for the show you could go to the merchandise stand and do some crowd free shopping which was also nice.

#dwtstour

Please note on the pics:  the itinerary says up within to 2 weeks which drives all of the fans crazy BUT so far this host is great and she had them up the same night which is really great!

#dwtstour

What to wear:  Be comfortable & wear what you want.  You will see everyone from dressed down to wearing beautiful dresses and everything in between. 

#dwtstour

Show time!  I will be doing another blog on the show itself after my next one.  I will say it’s really a great show.  No crowd interaction #’s which is disappointing. It seemed to me the dances were shorter but, we had a lot more of them which I loved!  More to come in a few weeks.  I want to see the show again and see how it differs with Milo at my next show and then will blog on the show itself.

#dwtstour

Suggestions for Tour Management:  This is something I have been thinking about.  For the Maks & Val Tour and the Derek & Julianne tours there was another top level tier package when you got pictures in the VIP and then got extra time with them backstage.  I know the VIP photos are with “select”dancers (3 Pro’s and the Celeb guest star) at each city but, many fans have voiced their disappointment when their “favorite” isn’t in their photo since it’s a random rotation.  I have heard many voice their displeasure at paying several hundred dollars but not getting a pic with their favorite.  What if you added another ticket tier or made it with the front row packages that you get your pic with the rest of the VIP’s and then you are either taken down just before the show or just after and get a photo with the full tour cast?  If you sold a very limited # of them it wouldn’t take that much extra time.  That way those that truly want to meet them all would have the chance and it would then add another tier package for you.   I know I would sign up for that for sure!

#dwtstour

If possible rotate the Pro’s if you are doing two shows in one city.  Some of us like to go to both shows and it would be great to get pics with two sets of dancers since you are paying VIP at both.

#dwtstour

Bravo & Thank you:  VIP Nation you always put together fantastic unique experiences and it doesn’t go unnoticed! Thank you so much to the tour staff:  Mandy Moore& Ashley Edens-Shaffer, Directors and our dance captains:  I think every fan should be sure they have a ticket for! The creative genius is obvious at every moment in the show. The vision and layout for this tour is truly worth 10 Stars!  The crew and all the other behind the scenes individuals also deserve a shout out! The Dancers (Val, Gleb, Artem, Witney, Sasha, Emma, Jenna, Hayley, Alan,Britt and Brandon all truly leave it on the floor each night.  It’s emotional, it’s passionate, it’s raw, it’s FUN, it’s full of energy and I am so excited I will get to see this tour multiple times and have a new take away each night!

#dwtstour

If you don’t have a ticket…Buy one today and if you are able to do VIP it’s worth the investment for this experience they have many different levels and price points too!  Here’s the link for tickets/VIP package! http://dwtstour.com/

#dwtstour

Want to see more photos?  For many more pictures from the tour, past tours please follow me on Instagram,Twitter & Facebook @lightscmemories!  If you have any questions that I can help with please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Where do I love to shop for fun outfits for VIP pics!

Fun concert wear!

Bebe:  http://www.bebe.com/

Nordstrom:  http://shop.nordstrom.com/

White House Black Market:  https://www.whitehouseblackmarket.com/store/

Coach:  http://www.coach.com/shop/women-wristlets

Until next time,

XOXO

Heather

VIP Experience Blog

DWTS VIP Light Up the Night Winter Tour 17-18

DWTS VIP Light Up the Night Winter Tour 17-18

#dwtstour

#dwtsvip

#lightupthenighttour

I’ve had the pleasure of being a VIP for the last six 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!  So let’s talk about the details of the VIP!

Pre-Show: For my 1st show in Charlotte I did the Front Row VIP Pkg we received the email 4 days ahead of the show.  We had to arrive between 4:15-5:15 but, remember that varies by city so check your itinerary.   VIP Hosts this tour are Jeff & Sam (Lindsay’s hubby)

Entering VIP:   There were a lot of VIP’s but, the facility was awesome and let us in out of the cold so we could line up inside.  Once we signed in I got my ticket, the VIP bag with a tall mug inside and the signed tour program.  They did the lanyards with the letters on them again which is great so then they are only lining up small groups at a time for the photos.

Now on to the good stuff!  After check in we were directed upstairs.  We all grabbed a drink and met up with some other really nice fans.  At about 5:30-5:45 they lined up the first group for the photos and the cast came in.  Hayley and Brandon were in the mingle and Jordan, Lindsay, Frankie (all 3 will be consistent this tour) and then the other 2 will rotate and we had Emma & Keo. I will be keeping track so you can see if there is a pattern and potentially narrow down who might be in your city!  Photos did go a little quick this time but, they did have a ton of people.  You were still able to say hi to each person and say something quick.  Hayley and Brandon were super sweet in the mingle.  The lighting was tough where they were standing so I would suggest using flash when you have your photos taken if the lighting is tough.

http://lightscmemories.com/vip/vip-photo-list-dwts-light-night-winter-tour/

DWTS TourThe VIP Nation staff is also very kind, nobody is yelling at you it’s a pleasant experience.  You do have to leave your purse, bags and anything else on you at the table and you cannot ask for autographs etc. at the cast photo portion.   This year too it was one professional photo taken by VIP Nation host, no selfie options in the main photo.  You could however do selfies with the dancers in the Meet & Mingle.  They did have a GIF area this time.  I didn’t get a chance to get over there as I was catching up with friends but, will at a future show.  After the photos were done and the dancers all left to get ready for the show you could go to the merchandise stand and do some crowd free shopping which was also nice.

Please note on the pics:  the itinerary says up within to 2 weeks which drives all of the fans crazy because that is the one thing they all want and it took 5 days to post the Charlotte pics and I am beyond disappointed, the host clearly did not check them like they usually do because my eyes are completely shut in both pictures!  That is not ok, people spend a lot of money on these packages, I can’t print either of my pictures!  If I could change one thing in the VIP world it would be that the photos were up in 24-48 hours as that is the ONE thing the fans want to see more than anything but, the tour just started so we will see if the speed improves.  UPDATE:  I have done 3 more shows since opening night and I am happy to report that the host is now checking the photos before you walk away to be sure eyes are open.  I was much happier with my photo from the Verona show and the Mohegan shows.  I did want to mention though because it was brought to my attention that the fans in Boston will not be receiving their photos.  They received an email offering a $100 refund and an apology that they would not be receiving their photos due to a memory card error.  I know so many of you follow this page and I just wanted to say that I am so sorry to hear that happened to you.  In all my years of doing VIP I never heard of that happening to an entire city.  I know on one hand you have the memory of meeting them but, I also totally understand how disappointed you are not having the photo memory.

DWTS TourWhat to wear:  Be comfortable & wear what you want.  You will see everyone from dressed down to wearing beautiful dresses and everything in between.

Show time!  I will be doing another blog on the show itself after my next one.  I will say it’s really a great show.  Very minimal crowd interaction this time, only Alan goes out for less than a minute to start off a # in the crowd.  That was disappointing because fans love that so much.  Jordan and Frankie are a lot of fun and the Pro’s just knock it out of the park with their high energy performance.  More to come in a few weeks.

Suggestions for Tour Management:  This is something I have been thinking about.  For the Maks & Val Tour and the Derek & Julianne tours there was another top level tier package when you got pictures in the VIP and then got extra time with them backstage.  I know the VIP photos are with “select” dancers (4 the last 2 tours & 5 this tour) at each city but, many fans have voiced their disappointment when their “favorite” isn’t in their photo since it’s a random rotation.  I have heard many voice their displeasure at paying several hundred dollars but not getting a pic with their favorite.  What if you added another ticket tier or made it with the front row packages that you get your pic with the rest of the VIP’s and then you are either taken down just before the show or just after and get a photo with the full tour cast?  If you sold a very limited # of them it wouldn’t take that much extra time.  That way you those that truly want to meet them all would have the chance and it would then add another tier package for you.  I know I would sign up for that for sure!

If possible rotate the staff if you are doing two shows in one city.  Some of us like to go to both shows and it would be great to get pics with two sets of dancers since you are paying VIP at both.

Bravo & Thank you:  VIP Nation you always put together fantastic unique experiences and it doesn’t go unnoticed! Thank you so much to the tour staff:  Mandy Moore & Ashley Edens-Shaffer, Directors and our dance captains:  Jenna and Artem truly put together an amazing show that I think every fan should be sure they have a ticket for! The creative genius is obvious at every moment in the show.  The vision and layout for this tour is truly worth 10 Stars!  The crew and all the other behind the scenes individuals also deserve a shout out!  The Dancers (Sharna, Gleb, Artem, Lindsay, Sasha, Keo, Emma, Jenna, Hayley, Alan, Morgan and Brandon all truly leave it on the floor each night.  It’s emotional, it’s passionate, it’s raw, it’s FUN, it’s full of energy and I am so excited I will get to see this tour multiple times and have a new take away each night!

If you don’t have a ticket…Buy one today and if you are able to do VIP it’s worth the investment for this experience they have many different levels and price points too!  Here’s the link for tickets/VIP package! http://dwtstour.com/

Want to see more photos?  For many more pictures from the tour, past tours please follow me on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook @lightscmemories!  If you have any questions that I can help with please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Where do I love to shop for fun outfits for VIP pics!

Fun concert wear!

Bebe:  http://www.bebe.com/

Nordstrom:  http://shop.nordstrom.com/

White House Black Market:  https://www.whitehouseblackmarket.com/store/

Coach:  http://www.coach.com/shop/women-wristlets

 

Until next time,

XOXO

Heather

VIP Experience Blog

98 Degrees Christmas Tour 2017

98 Degrees

Nick Lachey, Drew Lachey, Jeff Timmons & Justin Jeffre

December 2017

DPAC

98 degrees

 

 

Entering the 98 degrees VIP:

98 degrees had a fun VIP for their Christmas tour.  I was shocked when I signed in and found out I was the only one that had the Backstage experience.  I admit I was a little nervous.  They had us check in between 4-4:45, we were taken in for sound check around 5:15 and it started about 5:30.  That was a fun experience, Drew talked for a bit about the tour, the technical reasons they do the sound checks etc.  They did 2 full songs and then a snippet of a 3rd and then did a Q&A.  After that was finished we were added to the line for the group photos.  Only rules were no cell phone and no hugging the guys as they did not want to get sick on tour.

98 degreesBackstage Experience:  After the group pictures they escorted me down to the backstage area.  I really was so nervous for some reason but, the guys were all so nice and so sweet.  We all sat on the couches and talked a lot about DWTS and Nick & Drew’s experiences, I shared what I do with photography and then just random other discussions about bands, music etc.  I really appreciated that they asked me questions to and they seemed interested.  It really was like hanging out with any of my guy friends and it was such a great experience.  Before I left the room we all did a champagne toast and I had to laugh when they all said eyes, eyes, eyes, it’s an old wives tale but, it made me laugh.  We took selfies, they did a few videos for me and that was it.  I couldn’t have asked for a better experience truly.  I hope they will do that on future tours.

The concert itself was great, they played a fantastic mix of Holiday songs and all of their hits over the years.  I really enjoyed myself. 98 degrees

Suggestions for his staff & CID Entertainment: I would just say what I often am writing here.  I know they say it can take up to 2 weeks for your pictures but, my experience is the really great hosts have them up in 24 hours because they get how important it is to fans and how much anticipation there is to see the photos.  98 degreesThis host took a week to post them and even had a bunch of us worried because she posted less than 20 one day and that was it and we all were wondering what happened to ours and then 2 days later the rest were posted.  Rock star hosts post them very quickly because they truly get it.

98 degreesVenue Comments:   I usually love attending events at DPAC but, it really soured my opinion this time.  About 4 songs in I had a security manager come up to me and tell me I couldn’t use my point and shoot camera.  I said but, it’s a point and shoot and he said it’s making the tour uncomfortable and truly wasn’t very nice about it.  98 degreesI have used that camera there for a ton of events and it fits under what is allowed.  I was not happy at all and it really ruined the first part of the show for me.  At intermission, I asked someone to get him and I showed him in the light that my camera was within the rules and I asked him to take it back and show the tour.  Sure enough he came out and said its fine you can take pics the rest of the show.  It was just really unnecessary and you don’t have to be so rude to people that spend a lot of money to attend these events.

Final Verdict: Definitely recommend 98 Degrees VIP!

Here are a few videos:

https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=xErnX6TMSFI

https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=tKvo9V5o2xU

https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=D85H7cr75Sw

Fun concert wear!

Bebe:  http://www.bebe.com/

Nordstrom:  http://shop.nordstrom.com/

White House Black Market:  https://www.whitehouseblackmarket.com/store/

Coach:  http://www.coach.com/shop/women-wristlets

Until Next Time,

Xoxo

Heather

 

Entertainment Blog

Ideal Meet & Greet/Photo Op

Ideal Meet & Greet/Photo Op

If I could sit down with celebrity VIP teams…

This is a topic I have been thinking about for the last few years.  It’s part of the reason for starting this blog.  I never want this page to be a negative place but, rather somewhere to share information, experiences, value etc.  If I could sit down with artist’s and their management teams to give them insight into what fans feel are best VIP practices this is what I would say:

  1. Artists should keep their commitments. It’s one of the things that I think a pop star and his team did wrong earlier this year.  If they didn’t want to do meet and greets anymore that’s fine but, finish the ones that you had committed to, implement rules to meet your needs in the interim and have your team enforce them but, respect that a good portion of your VIP attendees often are paying to travel for the experience.

 

  1. Don’t do photo assembly lines. I truly wish all artists that did meet and greets would commit to an hour or so of their time depending on the #’s and do it right, treat each person like a human being, say hello, ask their name, ask where they are from (stars may be shocked how far some will travel to see them), have a genuine interaction, then take the photo.  Let’s face it these meet and greets, photo ops, fan trips cost a large sum of money, show the fans you value and respect their time and money by giving them an interaction.  When an artist’s team brags that they did 300 pictures in 16 minutes that truly is disappointing vs a recent event I was at they had about 200 people and they devoted a solid hour or more, it wasn’t rushed and everyone that walked out after was so happy, felt so special and most of all valued.

 

  1. Make the interactions private. What I have been seeing quite a bit lately is a curtain box created and have thought that is such a great idea.  You can step in, have your interaction and not have 200-300 people watching it.  It helps with your nerves too, nobody wants to feel like they are in a fishbowl it also solves the issue of people taking photos of the entertainer/star as they approach.  It will also help the genuine interaction because then they are not still speaking to the person ahead of you etc.

 

  1. Make the rules clear, stick to them and let them know what will happen if they violate the rules. If you say don’t take your cell phones out and ask for a selfie and someone does don’t post the photo, if you say don’t hug, kiss and rub all over an artist and people do don’t post the photo.  I would guarantee you would only have to enforce it once and word would travel.  Too many fans will just take liberties, ignore the rules just to achieve their own objective and it truly does spoil the process for others in many cases and it’s disrespectful to the artist.

 

  1. Post photos in a timely manner. The companies that have them posted same day or in 24 hours always get a WOW for service from me.  VIP Nation events have been crushing it with this service the last year.  All events I have gone to hosted by them they have been up during the show or the next day.   It’s been nice to see many are getting them done quickly lately, people are always so excited to receive them so the faster the better.

 

  1. Give organic genuine experiences. A few tours recently I have seen many people asking for kisses, hugs etc.  You are putting the stars in an awkward position because if they say no then they can be looked at like they are being a jerk but, people have to realize in most cases you are a stranger or a familiar face in the crowd to the artist.  Would you want a stranger walking up and asking you to kiss them, hug them etc.?  It’s such a better experience when it happens organically and it’s something the artist initiates because it’s genuine and something they truly wanted to do.  On the flip side though as the artist make an effort to say hello, ask someone’s name and go from there.

 

  1. Please no gum or food in your mouth. I have a few photos with different entertainers with a wad of gum clearly seen in the pic and then recently had an experience where someone was eating a marshmallow.  Again people pay a lot for these experiences, travel long distances and it’s just respectful not to have food/gum in your mouth and seen in the photos.

 

  1. Respect the time of individuals paying for the VIP experience. Don’t make them arrive 2 hours ahead to just stand in line and don’t leave them in the various elements like extreme heat & cold.  Be organized. Nobody likes to stand around waiting for hours.

 

For random interactions with stars I always like to see who puts in the extra effort with their fans.  I can say after seeing it many times that Keith Urban is one of the best at this.  Keith will stop and literally do selfies with 40 people and it takes maybe 10 minutes.  Now in these random cases I think it’s fine to do a quick hello, photo and move on you are not paying for it.

I think the stars also need to be careful the way their team is representing them.  At the softball game at CMA fest one of the entertainer’s boyfriend’s came out where fans were lined up after the game and was telling a guy to hurry up and have her car pulled around because she didn’t want to stop for fans.  Another country star I saw three times at CMA fest once on the pink carpet, at Fan Fair X and then out and about and he could not be bothered to take a photo or have an interaction but as soon as a TV camera was on him he changed right away.  I personally will not spend my money, pay to travel, attend a concert of anyone that shows such disregard for fans.  It’s all in how the situation is handled.  Like I said in my CMA Fest blog from Day 3 instead of responding “NAH” to someone, say sorry not today.  Treat people like human beings and they will in turn reward you by devoting their time and spending their hard earned money to support your career.

One star recently said it best you always have to treat each person special because that may be your 1 time ever to meet that person that has supported you and you don’t know what they had to do to be at that show, if they saved for 6 months, flew across the country etc.  Whether it’s a 30 second selfie interaction or a paid meet and greet it’s your chance to make and leave an impression both on the fan and star’s end.  I will always support the ones that care and truly get it because that adds value to the experience.  I also feel we all have to treat them respectfully.

I would love to hear more thoughts on this from those that read the blog…

 

Until next time,

 

Xoxoxo

Heather

VIP Experience Blog

Maks & Val Tour 2016: The VIP Experience

#maksandvaltour

#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.

13590245_10153878248753978_3747437061183592347_n

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 homeFullSizeRender-3 (2)
  • Intimate Photo Op with Maks and Val in their dressing room taken with a professional camera

IMG_4310 (2)

  • 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 Party13697139_10153916311633978_1548412270020562681_n
  • 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

FullSizeRender-4 (2)

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 loIMG_4286ved 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 tIMG_4288he 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 waIMG_4287nt 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.

IMG_4290

 

 

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/

13781904_10153916312833978_42556849397591688_n

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

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 toPeta 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 for13177215_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 hiSharna 8s football career.  He knows how to rise from being the underdog.

There dance was good.  Sharna always does really gooCh-rAtWVEAAtPIl.jpg larged 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 8star 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 suPaige 8ch 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 wheCeGvaQ3XIAE9fGon 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 8I 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 thVal Goodat 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 oWanya 8ver 20lbs since starting on the show.  They have a fun partnership and they clearly work well together.  LindsaCep4rolWEAEOy_n.jpg largey 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 danTeam Brunoce 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 2nd 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 ableTeam 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

#teamCarrieAnn529894366

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.

IMG_3176 (2)

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

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

#maksandval #ourwaytour

#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

 

VIP Experience Blog

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

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

 #maksandval

#ourwaytourCe6lNjIUEAEge5Z.jpg large     

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, pasmaks and valsion 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 premiIMG_2780um 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!IMG_2785 (2)

*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 PartyIMG_2781
  • 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 IMG_2782premium 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 tourpizap.com14608347803361 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 15th 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