The Meeting Professionals International Northern California Chapter (MPI NCC) is one of the largest and most vibrant chapters of MPI, the global association for meeting and event professionals. Dedicated to fostering professional growth, building industry connections, and advancing the events community, MPI NCC brings together planners and suppliers across the Bay Area to collaborate, learn, and celebrate the power of live experiences.
This year’s MPI NCC Annual Gala at Pier 27 was a shining example of that mission in action, a dazzling night of creativity, community, and connection right on San Francisco’s iconic waterfront. As the skyline sparkled outside, the energy inside was undeniable. From the décor and entertainment to the immersive photo activations, every detail was thoughtfully crafted to inspire and engage.
We were honored to be a part of this unforgettable evening, showcasing two of our most exciting experiences: the debut of our immersive portrait experience and the always crowd-pleasing Glambot.
The Spotlight: An Immersive Portrait Experience
One of the most talked-about highlights of the night was our latest innovation — a fully immersive portrait experience. We created a sleek, modern 7×7-foot portrait box that invited guests to quite literally step into the spotlight. As soon as they entered the space, attendees were met with professional lighting and a dynamic photo session designed to make them feel like stars.
Not only that, each portrait was printed on the spot and carefully placed in a clean, stylish mat frame. The result perfectly complemented the image and provided a personalized keepsake to take home. But we didn’t stop there, digital versions were instantly delivered via text, allowing guests to share their red-carpet moment on social media just moments after it happened.
This experience wasn’t just about taking a picture, it was about capturing a feeling: confidence, elegance, and celebration. Watching guests light up as they saw their portraits for the first time was truly unforgettable.
Glambot Video: Where Cinematic Meets Celebration
Of course, no gala is complete without a little high-speed glamour. Our Glambot activation brought a whole new level of cinematic flair to the evening. Using a robotic camera arm and slow-motion video capture, we transformed spontaneous movements — hair flips, dance moves, and champagne toasts — into sleek, red-carpet-style videos that guests could instantly share.
The Glambot is more than a camera, it’s an experience. It gives guests the chance to create something uniquely their own, blending high-end polish with a sense of fun and spontaneity. Throughout the night, it captured the energy on the dance floor in cinematic slow motion from dramatic spins and celebratory cheers to hair flips, laughter, and impromptu choreography. Whether striking a solo pose or pulling friends in for a group moment, attendees fully embraced their inner celebrities. The results were nothing short of stunning and energetic!
A Night Made Possible by Passionate People
This event was not just special for what we showcased — it was also personal. Our founder, Richard, had the incredible honor of serving as Chair for the MPI NCC Gala, working alongside the amazing Catherine Ruth (Co-Chair) and Kathy Newby (Director of Events). Their leadership and passion helped shape the event into a true reflection of the MPI community: inclusive, innovative, and inspiring.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to every volunteer who helped bring the evening to life: Vivian, Michael, Josh, Christa, Nicole, Steve, Manny, Breanna, Myra, Jesse, Misti, Rita, Michelle, and Pam. Events of this scale and caliber don’t happen without countless hours of behind-the-scenes work, and your efforts did not go unnoticed.
Partnering with the Best in the Business
Notably, we were surrounded by some of the most talented vendors in the industry, from AV and lighting to food, design, and entertainment.
🪑 Décor & Rentals
- @afrfurniturerental – Lounge & Event Furnishings
- @brighteventrentals – Rentals & Décor Essentials
- @unicapartyrentals – Furniture & Event Rentals
- @inspirationsbygina – Floral Design
🎶 Entertainment
- @vybesociety – Live Band & Afterparty Entertainment
- @curated_ent – Walk-Around Magic
- @circosphere – Live Orbital Performance
- @21funcasinoparty – Casino Lounge
🍽️ Food & Beverage
- @smashingdishescatering – Culinary Experience
- @thereddoorcatering510 – Dinner Service
- @craftmakerbev – Signature Cocktails
- @sfcocktail.club – Cocktail Experience
- @wente – Dinner Wine
- @cocolabakery – Desserts
- @tinybchocolate – Sweet Treats
📸 Photo, Video & Production
- @poplifephotobooth – Photo, Portraits & Glambot Activations
- @loveuniquestudios – Videography
- @mistilayne – Event Photography
💡 Technical Support
- @vipavco – Main Floor AV & Lighting
- @enhancedlighting – Lower-Level AV Support
- @edlen_thepowerpeople – Power & Tech Support
Wrapping Up the Night in Style
The MPI NCC Gala was a celebration of everything that makes our industry thrive: creativity, connection, and community. We were beyond proud to contribute to this magical evening by creating photo experiences that didn’t just capture moments, but created memories.
From the slow-motion glamour of the Glambot to the intimate elegance of our immersive portrait experience, every click of the camera told a story. And as we look ahead to the holiday season and beyond, we can’t wait to bring this same energy to even more unforgettable events.