Guess What???? We’re only 155 days way from the 2nd Annual Flagstaff Blues and Brews!!!!
I think I may have just dropped Jennifer, but I’m so excited! Of course we have a lot to do! We have sponsorships to wrap up, talent to book, stages to set up, marketing to start, ticketing, logistics and beer! Speaking of beer! O’Dell is back on board and we couldn’t be happier. Partnerships when you’re successful are much easier to obtain, than when you first start out. Businesses are asked to sponsor so many events, that when a new one comes in, it’s easier to justify no, then to believe in an unknown. But those who believe in you and your vision – it doesn’t get any better than that. The first year of the Flagstaff Blues and Brews was personal. I wanted to put on this festival so many years before we did, and I had to pull the plug on the festival twice before everything fell into place (well – maybe not fall) in 2013. I had some amazing support that year and they are Rock Stars in my book. The nice thing about year 2 is that people in the business world start to understand your vision and a few more will come on board. More businesses are realizing how much they can stretch their marketing plan with a sponsorship and the impact of face to face interaction with the audience. So, because our sponsors want more interaction, we’re redesigning the layout, making sure their booths are easier to get to and visit during the show.
Redesigning the layout also means moving the stage so that you don’t have to stare into the sun all day. Thinking we were giving the audience a great back drop of Mt. Elden apparently wasn’t nearly as important as keeping their eyes from going up in flames.
I have discovered some really cool new bands and also rediscovered a few of the older ones as well. I think it’s going to be a great mix this year.
So as I said, I’m so excited for the next 155 days. You on the other hand have 155 days to put in for vacation time and take off June 21, 2014, if you’re coming up from Phoenix – make it a weekend. Now don’t book too soon or you’ll make my rooms that I buy for the acts more expensive – we sell out that weekend every year! Oh and the average temperature for June 21st in Flagstaff? 80 for the high and 45 for the low. So, bring lots of sunscreen and a sweater.
Debbi