Outdoor Stage Design Techniques

From concerts under the stars to plays in the park, outdoor events have a unique charm and vibrancy that indoor settings often can’t match. However, stage design for an outdoor setting poses specific challenges and requires thoughtful planning to ensure success.

At MadeFirst, we specialize in transforming outdoor spaces into captivating stages for festivals, sports marketing and other special occasions. Here’s how we approach outdoor stage design to create lasting memories.

Understanding the Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Stage Design

Protection From the Elements

Unlike indoor stages, outdoor stages require robust structures to protect equipment and performers from weather conditions. These include canopies or roofs to shield against sun and rain, plus durable materials that withstand wind and environmental wear.

Sound Considerations

Without walls to contain and bounce sound, outdoor acoustics differ significantly from indoor environments. Strategic speaker placement and sound barriers ensure crisp, clear audio quality that reaches the audience effectively.

Lighting Requirements

Natural lighting can be a blessing and a challenge in outdoor settings. Stage lighting must adapt to change with the time of day and weather conditions, necessitating lighting rigs that are flexible enough to adjust as needed.

Tips for Transforming an Outdoor Venue

1. Start With the Site Layout

Before beginning any design work, we will analyze the space’s natural flow and features. Essential considerations include the direction of the sun during event hours, natural acoustics and how the audience will move through the event area.

2. Integrate Nature Into Your Design

Use the landscape to your advantage. Trees can be beautiful backdrops or act as natural sound barriers. However, natural elements should not obstruct views or interfere with acoustics.

3. Prioritize Flexibility

Mother Nature is fickle. Modular stages allow quick adaptations or additions like mobile equipment covers, easily adjustable lighting and removable stage sections.

4. Focus on Audience Comfort

All attendees should have ample shade areas, seating options and clear sightlines. Comfort enhances the audience experience, making them more likely to stay engaged and spread the word about your event.

5. Enhance With Technology

LED screens allow viewers to see better, especially in bright or expansive settings. All electronic equipment must be weatherproof or have adequate protection from the elements.

Why Outdoor Events Are Memorable

Connection With Nature

The natural setting provides a unique, refreshing backdrop that inherently makes the event special and memorable.

Atmospheric Magic

There’s a unique quality to a performance seen under the sun or stars. This ambiance is difficult or impossible to replicate indoors.

More Audience Engagement

Expansive outdoor settings often allow for larger audiences and more dynamic interactions. The freedom to move around and explore different vantage points can make the experience more enjoyable.

Versatility

Outdoor stages can host a wide range of events, from concerts and theatre productions to speeches and ceremonies, each offering a distinct experience thanks to the open environment.

Bring Your Vision to Life With Professional Stage Design

Designing an outdoor stage demands creativity, adaptability and meticulous planning. At MadeFirst, we are experts in creating functional, safe and memorable outdoor stages. An outdoor stage offers an unforgettable experience, whether you’re planning a concert, play or any other event. MadeFirst’s team can transform your outdoor venue, making every performance stand out. Contact us to turn your ideas into reality.

Sustainable Set Design

The film and television industry has a significant environmental footprint. As awareness of this fact grows, professionals increasingly recognize the urgent need to adopt greener practices throughout their daily operations.

Sustainable set design minimizes ecological impact and opens avenues for cost savings and creative innovation. Here’s how you can make your next production more environmentally friendly and impactful.

The Importance of Greener Filming

Adopting sustainable practices in set design offers numerous benefits.

• Reduces waste: Sustainable sets produce significantly less waste by using materials more efficiently and prioritizing recyclability.

• Conserves: Requiring fewer raw materials reduces the strain on natural resources.

• Saves costs: Using recycled and upcycled materials can be cost-effective compared to purchasing everything new.

• Boosts creativity: The challenge of finding and implementing green solutions can inspire unique and innovative design choices.

1. Sourcing Sustainable Materials

Material choice is crucial for sustainable set design. Responsibly sourced timber and plywood are carbon-neutral because they come from sources that actively consume CO2. Bamboo and mycelium are other excellent choices; bamboo is highly renewable, while mycelium is versatile and fully compostable. Additionally, technology like 3D printing for set pieces reduces mass production emissions and allows for eco-friendly and visually striking designs.

2. Recycling, Reusing and Upcycling

Recycle and reuse set materials like wood and cardboard. Upcycling props wherever possible saves money and keeps waste out of landfills. Make your production more sustainable by extending each item’s lifecycle.

3. Building for Future Dismantling and Storage

Design sets with the future in mind. For example, choose modular sets that easily disassemble for reuse. Use energy-efficient, space-conserving storage practices.

 4. Using Energy-Efficient Lighting

Since conventional set lighting often comes with high energy costs, transitioning to LED lights can drastically reduce your electricity consumption. Smart power strips and renewable energy sources like solar panels can further shrink your environmental footprint and offer long-term cost savings.

Crafting Eco-Friendly Cinematic Worlds

Environmentally conscious design is essential in an industry as influential as film – and MadeFirst’s design and fabrication team has the artisans, resources and creativity to bring any idea to life. When you partner with us, we will create an unforgettable, immersive experience to help you achieve your artistic visions in a way that respects and preserves our environment.

Sustainable set design can reduce your ecological footprint, save on production costs and challenge the norms of traditional set construction, all while creating unforgettable cinematic experiences. Contact us to make your next project a testament to innovation and environmental responsibility.

Parade Design

Parades have been a source of celebration and spectacle for centuries, captivating audiences with their vibrant displays and festive atmosphere. Today, parade floats have evolved from their humble beginnings into elaborate masterpieces that enchant and entertain crowds. At MadeFirst, we specialize in bringing these dynamic visions to life, transforming your ideas into awe-inspiring floats that steal the show, no matter the occasion.

The History of Parade Floats

The tradition of parade floats began with simple carts designed to carry religious icons or figures during public processions. These rudimentary platforms evolved dramatically over the millennia to the vibrant displays we know and love today.

In the modern era, parade floats have become a cornerstone of cultural celebrations worldwide, known for their extravagant designs and mechanical ingenuity. These floats are moving stages that showcase advanced craftsmanship and artistic expression. With each passing year, designers push the boundaries of creativity and technology, crafting floats that feature intricate moving parts and engage viewers of all ages.

Where Your Parade Vision Comes to Life

At MadeFirst, we understand that a parade float is a storytelling tool that can evoke emotions and create lasting memories. Whether you’re planning a float for a holiday, a cultural festival, or any other special event, our team has the tools and abilities to deliver nothing short of spectacular.

• Customization at its best: Our design process starts with your vision. We take the time to understand the theme and message you want to convey. From there, we brainstorm, sketch, and model, ensuring every detail aligns with your expectations. We masterfully craft custom floats to fit any event, whether it’s celebrating tradition, innovation, or community spirit.

• State-of-the-art techniques: Using the latest in design technology, CNC fabrication, and materials, MadeFirst creates visually stunning floats that are also durable and safe for participants and viewers. We incorporate moving parts, sound systems, and special effects that bring your float to life.

• Interactive designs: We believe the best floats fully engage the audience. Our designs often include elements that reach out, move, and even respond to the crowd, transforming viewers into participants and creating a completely unforgettable experience. 

If You Can Dream It, MadeFirst Will Build It

Whether your parade celebrates heritage, showcases innovation, or merely spreads joy, a well-crafted float can make all the difference. As a full-service fabrication company, we’ll make your float stand out for its creativity, craftsmanship, and capacity to captivate.

Are you ready to make a statement? Connect with MadeFirst – trust our team to transform your creative vision into a spectacular parade float that resonates with and delights the audience. Contact us today, and let’s create something extraordinary together!

What Is Brand Activation?

Every marketer has the same overarching goals – to spark customer interest and create a long-lasting impression. Brand activation is one way to transform your interaction with customers. At MadeFirst, we believe in the power of making a genuine connection with your audience with unforgettable, larger-than-life experiences. Here’s how brand activation can revitalize your marketing efforts.

 Effective Brand Activation Strategies

Brand activation is an innovative marketing technique that can enhance brand awareness, forge robust relationships with your target audience, and nurture loyalty. Campaigns, events, and interactions designed to inspire customer action bring your brand to life and allow people to experience it firsthand, making it more tangible and relatable.

Use these innovative strategies to kickstart your next campaign and infuse energy into your brand activation efforts.

 1. Get Interactive

Interactive events create a platform where customers can engage directly with your brand. Active participation is your secret to success – invite your attendees to immerse themselves in the experience. Enhance your reach on social media by creating a unique hashtag dedicated to your event and encouraging people to use it when posting updates like photos and videos.

 2. Showcase Product Features

Brand activation is an excellent way to unveil new products or services. Demonstrating the benefits live can generate a buzz that makes your event memorable and impactful.

 3. Create Strategic Partnerships

Reaching out to non-competing brands that share a similar target audience can amplify your results. Together, you can collaborate on products, campaigns, or events that leverage each company’s strengths.

 4. Embody Your Brand’s Values

A successful brand activation campaign should connect with your core values and mission. Using compelling visuals and narratives that reflect your purpose and promise should increase engagement and convert repeat customers into passionate brand advocates.

 Evaluate Your Success

After completing a brand activation campaign, savvy marketers must evaluate its effectiveness using various metrics.

•  Customer acquisition: Have you experienced an increase in customers, sales, or revenue?

• Social media engagement: Analyze new followers, mentions, comments, and likes to gauge interest and interaction online.

• Live participation: Audience activity during the event can directly indicate its success. How did attendees interact and respond?

• Overall campaign results: Track various performance metrics to understand your campaign’s impact.

 Unleash the Power of Engaging Marketing Campaigns With MadeFirst

Brand activation is a strategic approach that brings your brand directly to the people who matter most – your customers. You can significantly enhance your reputation by creating engaging, interactive, and memorable experiences.

 At MadeFirst, we specialize in bringing your vision to life with innovative services like stage design, trade show displays, and prop creation, ensuring each activation reaches and resonates with your audience. Contact us to activate your brand in a way that leaves an indelible impression.

Stage Design for Keynote Speakers

A successful keynote presentation can set a tone, reinforce the event’s theme, and unify attendees under a single inspiring message. However, after hiring a marquee keynote speaker, you must set the stage – literally.

 Professional stage design enhances the presentation’s delivery and significantly influences how your audience receives your message. Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to tailor the perfect stage for your next keynote speaker, ensuring their message resonates and captivates.

 1. Understand the Speaker’s Needs

The first step in designing a stage for a keynote speaker is to thoroughly understand their style, preferences, and goals. Begin with a detailed consultation – ask whether your presenter prefers a minimalist setup with only a podium and a screen, or a more dynamic environment with custom props and space to move around. Align the stage design with the speaker’s persona and presentation style.

 2. Plan the Layout

Next, decide on a layout that suits the venue’s size, shape, and location. It should maximize visibility, accessibility, and comfort for the speaker and audience. Depending on your event venue, your options might include a proscenium stage for a formal mood or a thrust stage, which extends into the audience for a more intimate interaction. Decide what atmosphere you want to establish and use the stage layout to your advantage.

 3. Integrate Effective Visual Elements

With the layout set, the focus shifts to incorporating visual elements that reinforce the speaker’s message and theme. Your overarching goal is to enrich the presentation without overwhelming the content. Stay consistent with your event branding to ensure every piece of the design aligns harmoniously.

 4. Test and Adjust the Setup

The final step before the event goes live is a comprehensive test of the stage setup. Double-check all technical aspects, such as the lighting, sound, and projection systems. The planning team must also assess the aesthetic elements to ensure visual harmony and impact from every seat in the house. Feedback from the speaker, venue staff, and test audience members can provide invaluable insights, allowing for final adjustments that perfect the setup.

 Your Partner in Crafting an Impactful Presentation Space

A compelling corporate speaker can make your next event, conference, awards show, or seminar unforgettable. After investing in a distinguished keynoter, take the presentation’s impact to the next level with an expertly planned stage design.

 At MadeFirst, we specialize in transforming everyday spaces into extraordinary presentation arenas. Trust our expert team to tailor every element of the stage design to provide an immersive and memorable experience for the speaker and their captivated audience, reflecting the high caliber of your event and the impact of your business’ brand. Connect with us today to bring your visions to life.

The Psychology of Experiential Marketing

Standing out as a brand often means investing in innovation and breaking away from traditional marketing approaches to be remembered by a consumer. Experiential marketing is pure innovation in its creation of immersive experiences that go beyond the visual and engage multiple senses.

Experiential Marketing Explained

Experiential marketing engages audiences by inviting them to actively participate. This captures attention, creates memories and emotions by engaging the senses. It is the difference between hearing about a festival and being at one, seeing the lights, hearing the music, feeling the summertime heat.

Does Experiential Marketing Work Well?

The efficacy of experiential marketing is due to how it impacts audiences psychologically (if done well), namely:

Emotional Engagement: Experiential marketing campaigns are designed to evoke emotions, whether it's joy, surprise, inspiration or nostalgia, the emotional connection augments brand perception and recall.

Sensory Engagement: People are more likely to remember an experience when more senses are involved. Offering a multisensory experience strengthens audience connection, makes audiences want to share their experiences and strengthens brand recall.

Social Influence: Experiential marketing incorporates social elements with visible key influencers and curated spaces and backdrops set up for social posts. This taps into the psychological concept of social proof, where individuals look to the behavior and opinions of others when making decisions. A shared, positive experience can amplify brand perception through word-of-mouth and social sharing.

The Element of Surprise: Experiential marketing often incorporates elements of surprise or novelty, making the experience more memorable and enhancing the wow-factor of the brand.

Is Experiential Marketing Better than Traditional Marketing?

Immersive experiences and brand activations can engaging audiences on a level that traditional marketing can't. As we move further into an experience-driven economy, the brands that engage through meaningful, memorable experiences are the ones that will stand out and engage new audiences. If your brand wants to offer an impactful experience, reach out to one of our project managers.

Our Event Marketing in 2023

Over the years, the MadeFirst team has built and installed hundreds of stages, pop-up shops, backdrops, props and other projects for customers from coast to coast. Our attention to detail, outstanding craftsmanship and industry knowledge have made us a go-to vendor for leading companies like Spotify, Instagram, CMA, Pinterest, Adobe and Pepsi.

 Our favorite projects of 2023 showcase our capabilities and represent the trust our clients place in us. From grand stages at award shows to interactive exhibits at trade shows, each activation is a story of a vision made real with our expertise.

•  Art Basel in Miami invited us to be part of their weekend full of art.

• We were pleased to build the main stage for writer, director and actor Seth McFarlane’s Los Angeles holiday party, The Chalet Claus.

• We decorated a Nashville bar with disco balls and pink everywhere for a collaboration between country singer Kelsea Ballerini and the Covergirl cosmetics brand.

• Our team created a sleek stage design for Amazon’s 2023 product launch.

• Wells Fargo hired us to set up an autumn-inspired installation at Legacy Farms.

 A Portfolio That Speaks for Itself

At MadeFirst, we have a reputation for unparalleled quality, creativity and service that brings ideas to life. Our team of skilled craftspeople use high-tech equipment like CNC machines and robotic arms to transform raw materials like wood, metal and foam into artwork. Our diverse portfolio is a testament to our ability to adapt and excel in any challenge thrown our way.

 Our commitment to innovation sets MadeFirst apart as custom fabricators. We don’t follow trends; we set them. Our team constantly pushes the boundaries of what’s possible, integrating the latest technologies and techniques into our projects to ensure our clients are always ahead of the curve.

 Client-Centric Approach

At the heart of MadeFirst’s ethos is a deep-rooted belief in putting our clients first. We understand every experiential marketing project brings a unique set of challenges and expectations. That’s why we work closely with our clients from the initial concept to final execution, seamlessly shepherding their visions into the world as they imagined, if not better. It’s no wonder a significant portion of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals.

 In the custom fabrication industry, deadlines and costs are as crucial as the work output. MadeFirst excels in delivering projects on time and on budget, never compromising on quality. Our efficient planning and fabrication methods allow us to offer competitive pricing, ensuring our clients get the best value for their investment.

A Legacy of Success

Are you ready to make a splash at your 2024 event? Rely on MadeFirst to build your next larger-than-life prop, 3D advertisement, portable display, trade show booth or anything else you can conceive. Whether you have a simple back-of-the-napkin sketch or a fully realized concept, we will partner with you to bring your vision to life in a way that exceeds your expectations. Contact us today, and one of our experienced team members will gladly answer all your questions.

SXSW Installations: Where Innovation and Creativity Collide

SXSW 2024 is approaching quickly. This flagship event started in Austin in 1987, and has grown into the premier destination for innovative speakers, filmmakers and artists worldwide. At MadeFirst, we proudly create unforgettable SXSW installations that transform spaces into hubs of imagination and interaction.

The Evolution of SXSW

SXSW has rapidly evolved, mirroring Austin’s dynamic growth as a hub for live music, entertainment and arts. From its humble origins as a music festival, SXSW has become an annual combination of parallel film, interactive media, concerts and conferences that take place in mid-March.

 What began as a regional event is now an international extravaganza, drawing attendees from every corner of the globe. It’s where passion meets profession, tomorrow’s trends debut today and the boundaries of creativity expand to new horizons.

 The Experience: More Than a Festival

SXSW is a rare blend of cutting-edge technology, digital innovation, art and performance. It’s an immersive experience you must see to appreciate – and it’s a perfect fit for the one-of-a-kind services we offer at MadeFirst. If you plan to exhibit at SXSW, our artisans can make your vision a reality, whether you need an immersive marketing display, a larger-than-life prop or a stage set.

• Interactive installations: These experiences engage, challenge and inspire. They are a testament to how art and technology can meld to create something truly revolutionary.

• Technology demos: SXSW has become a premier destination to witness and interact with the latest in technology. From virtual reality to AI, the future of tech unfolds in the heart of Texas.

• Art exhibits: Showcasing artists from emerging talents to established names, the art at SXSW is as diverse as it is provocative.

• Performance showcases: Music and live performances have always been at the heart of SXSW, spanning various genres and styles that reflect the festival’s eclectic spirit.

 Why Attend SXSW?

Attending SXSW is your chance to explore the convergence of different industries, meet like-minded people and engross yourself in a transformative experience.

•  Networking opportunities: SXSW draws a crowd of innovators, forward-thinking industry leaders and creative minds. The connections you make there can redefine your career and spark groundbreaking collaborations.

• Educational value: With panels, presentations and workshops led by some of the brightest minds, attendees gain insights and knowledge that are hard to find elsewhere.

• Cultural impact: SXSW keeps a finger on the pulse of cultural trends. It’s where new ideas gain momentum, and attendees often get a firsthand look at what’s next in various industries.

Exhibit at SXSW 2024

SXSW’s consistent growth speaks volumes about its caliber. Every year, the event manages to outperform itself by attracting increasingly diverse, challenging and innovative content. It’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to redefine the parameters of creativity and innovation.

At MadeFirst, our services are a perfect match for the endless possibilities SXSW 2024 presents. Whether you want to create an awe-inspiring installation, showcase your company’s groundbreaking technology or contribute to the vibrant tapestry of art and performance, we’re ready to support you with our expertise.

 As SXSW continues to be synonymous with brilliant ideas and promising future trends, we encourage your business to participate in this extraordinary event. Join our team of ingenious craftspeople in pushing the limits of what’s possible and celebrating the spirit of innovation SXSW embodies. Our innovation, attention to detail and client dedication combine to make MadeFirst your ideal partner for your next creative endeavor. Contact us today to start the conversation about your ideas!

Experiential Marketing Examples

Today’s marketplace has thousands of brands vying for consumers’ attention. While having an excellent product is a fundamental cornerstone, it isn’t the sole factor attracting customers to your brand. Customer involvement plays a pivotal role, which is why experiential marketing can be valuable.

 What Is Experiential Marketing?

Also called “engagement marketing,” experiential marketing is far from your typical ad campaign. This strategy encourages audiences to interact with a brand in a tangible, real-world situation instead of only watching or reading about it.

 With experiential marketing, brands emerge from behind the screen or billboard and step into the real world. The result is hands-on, immersive branding materials that leave an indelible imprint on consumers.

 The MadeFirst team creates stunning, larger-than-life installations for conferences, trade shows, festivals, conventions, brand launches, sporting events, premieres and more. Our talented fabricators are experts in 3D modeling, rendering and CAD drawing, and we will work with you at every step of the way to make your vision a reality. As one of the only fabricators with a robotic arm, we can handle CNC routing, oversized props, 3D printing, foam carving and more.

 Why It Matters

According to Forbes, experiential marketing fosters a lasting connection between customers and a brand. That’s because it taps into the senses, making every interaction memorable.

 Moreover, these campaigns can be data goldmines. Every time a consumer interacts in an experiential marketing setting, you can collect more information about them. Then, you can use this rich data pool to refine and elevate future marketing strategies.

 The Integrated Approach: Bridging Offline and Online

Though experiential marketing’s essence is in the tangible, offline world, that doesn’t mean online elements are out of the picture. Integrating online components can amplify your campaigns’ reach and impact.

 Consider that the vast majority of video marketers report a high return on investment from video content. Furthermore, consumers are twice as likely to share videos over any other content type, which paints a clear picture of the power of digital media.

 Therefore, blending the two can be potent. Launching a brand-specific hashtag during an offline event can spark a ripple of online buzz. Tools like livestreaming can bring local, in-person events to global audiences in real time. Encouraging attendees to share their experiences on social platforms can exponentially expand your brand awareness.

 Make Your Next Event Unforgettable With Experiential Marketing

MadeFirst understands the power and potential of experiential marketing. Crafting a brand narrative is one thing; letting your audience live that narrative is another level altogether. Whether you’re hosting a special event, planning a booth at an upcoming trade show or launching a promotion, count on us to create an experience that can turn casual consumers into brand evangelists. Though many of our projects are confidential, we believe our portfolio speaks for itself.

 MadeFirst is here to help your brand’s story resonate offline and online. Once we’ve built your experiential marketing campaign, we’ll handle everything from trucking and storage to shipping and receiving. Our team of logicians will coordinate with vendors and clients, ensuring on-time delivery of our high-quality installations. Contact us today for all your experiential marketing needs, and let’s collaborate to build your dreams.

3D Advertising Company

If you’ve ever watched a movie while wearing 3D glasses, you have seen firsthand how immersive and impactful this technology can be. The characters come right out of the screen toward you, making you feel like you are part of the action. In recent years, the power of 3D has transcended movie theaters to revolutionize the way brands communicate with their audiences.

Benefits of 3D Advertising

Three-dimensional visuals offer depth perception to viewers, giving them a better experience than traditional 2D. And the advantages don’t end there. 3D advertising offers a unique appeal through real-time interactivity and manipulation, resulting in enhanced customer engagement. 3D ads improve sales conversion through better experience and understanding of your brand. From 360-degree product visualization to in-depth customization and even gamification, 3D allows brands to dictate the narrative and user experience.

• Personalization: 3D advertising allows users to see how a product looks from every angle. This ability to personalize online experiences is tremendously attractive, building brand loyalty and trust.

• High conversion rates: With 3D advertising, people can try before they buy. The ability to make more informed decisions will increase your repeat customers.

• Strong audience connection: The best marketing campaigns inspire emotion, and 3D advertising simplifies that task. Its ability to create immersive experiences makes the audience feel more attracted to your brand and everything it has to offer.

Ad Fatigue vs. 3D Authenticity

The average person sees hundreds, if not thousands, of advertisements every day. This oversaturation has led to advertising fatigue – when people who see your ads too often become bored and annoyed. The resulting lack of attention makes your campaigns less effective and ultimately harms your company’s bottom line.

3D visuals’ depth, interactivity and sheer novelty can shatter this monotony, leading to exponentially higher brand engagement than traditional campaigns. With 3D ads, consumers will resonate with your brand on a profound cognitive level and actively participate in your marketing efforts, building a foundation for long-term brand engagement and loyalty.

Scholars Charles Dennis and Raed Algharabat coined the marketing term “3D authenticity” to describe a viewer’s psychological connection with a three-dimensional advertisement. In this state, users view the virtual object as genuine, even tangible. Consequently, consumers are more likely to perceive brands that provide 3D previews of their products as reliable and worth purchasing from.

MadeFirst: Your Partner in 3D Mastery

At MadeFirst, we help our customers get ahead of their competitors who still use conventional two-dimensional graphics. Our talented team of artists understands the value of 3D and has incorporated it into our array of services. We have the resources and skills to bring any vision to life.

Whether you need a massive 3D prop for a festival, an interactive brand display at a trade show or a captivating 3D advertisement campaign, we’ve got the expertise to make it a reality.

So, why wait? Embrace the future of advertising with MadeFirst and make your brand stand out in a 2D world. Reach out to us today to learn more about our approach and capabilities.