Experts View! My Vision!

Up until almost 4 weeks ago I did not realize how important a business plan would be and how it can successfully help me throughout my journey. Since the beginning of my Business Plan Development class I have been following some of the top Event Planners in the industry to help encourage me to see my vision through. I have learned that just because I have the educational background my learning does not stop there. This is something I’ve learned not only from my industry experts David Tutera and Preston Bailey but also from Jayson Whitmore a former student of Full Sail University.

I have learned that in order to be successful you must know your competition. With that being said I have decided to research my market a little more and learn more about those who could come off as a competitor; those whom would potentially be consider my competition. Both David Tutera and Preston Bailey would both be competitors of one another but being that they both serve to very different markets allows them to both be successful in the same field. I know that there are many event planners in my area and in order for me to stand out I must display uniqueness, I must prepare myself and do my research and know exactly whom it is I am targeting.

Being that I am starting from scratch with my business I know that I have a long road ahead of me, and a lot of work to do. I also know that it takes money to make money and in order to be successful with my business I need to develop a plan that will appeal to investor in a way so that they will be willing to lend the money to help me start my journey on the road to success.  There is not one part of my business plan I feel is more important than the other. Most peoples down fall in business is that they fail to plan (John Beckley). I feel like the entire plan from the Executive Summary to the Target Market on down to the Financial Data all holds the same amount of importance. Along with all of the key point the investor will look for I believe my creativity, my passion and my determination to be on top, will WOW the investors and let them know I am completely serious about my work and making sure my business is built to last. 

References:

Full Sail University. (2011). Jayson Whitmore: BPD Business Plan Video. In Full Sail Online. Retrieved November 14, 2011, 

http://course.online.fullsail.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=lms.activitiesDISCUSSION&activityId=522777&deliveryId=1060336

David Tutera (2011) Retrieved November 14, 2011

http://davidtutera.com/index.php

Preston Bailey. (2011) Retrieved November 14, 2011 
http://www.prestonbailey.com/

Isabel M. Isidro. Power House Biz. Tips for starting a business. Retrieved November 14, 2011

http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol2/competitor.htm

 

Preston Bailey & David Tutera Motiviation to Success!!!

The key to a successful business is a well-put together plan. Business plans takes time and effort, so you have to make sure you cross your “T’s” and dot your “I’s”. There are several successful business owners and entrepreneurs who have mastered the field of writing and reviewing business plans. The Graduate Program at Fullsail University put’s their student in the position to be able to develop a successful plan of their own.  This months entering in the Business Development Plan class we are focusing on individuals who are experts in the field of writing and reviewing business plans.

I have a high interest in the event planning, managing and design industry. There are several individuals who inspire me to move forward and strive hard to be successful in that field. Preston Bailey and David Tutera two successful event planners that know what it takes stand out in the industry.

Preston Bailey was born and raised in Panama’. At the age of 19 he moved to New York where he began his fashion Career. Preston Bailey has always been innovative, unique and creative. These traits encouraged him to focus on a career in the events industry. Preston Bailey has made several national television appearances.

David Tutera at the age of 19 took on some advice from his grandfather and opened up an event planning business. Today David stands as one of the most well known recognized event and wedding planner. Tutera has been honored by several magazines and currently is the host of a primetime show “My Fair Weddings” which is aired on We tv. Tutera has seven books in the store that will assist individuals with party planning and event planning. David is also a partner for Mon Cheri Wedding Collection. In addition to Tutera’s wedding collection he also has a bridal jewelry line that is online and at locate sear stores. With all the work he has created, David has had the pleasure to featuring on several national television shows.

Just from following Both Bailey and Tutera, they both are definite examples of individuals who conquered and mastered their business plan. When working on a business the first thing one should keep in mind is that it cost money to make money. Tutera and Bailey had a plan and they both put their plan to work. I’m sure that the steps that were taken were different but the end rests were the same. They mastered their plan and made sure that the key components were there to carry out their business plan.

I have always been a huge fan of David Tutera, and Preston Bailey both of them motivate me in several different ways to make sure my plan is in place so I can share the success that the two of them have endured. I am currently in progress to being certified through Preston’s course, preparing myself to get hands on experience on how to master the industry as he has done himself.

Investors look for certain key components and require that those key components are strong enough to paint out a perfect picture that is believable enough for them to believe in you as well. The key components are the foundation of your business plan without that key component, and or if those key components were not as strong as an investor would prefer your business may not succeed. I have learned more than enough through out my education and following my role models that it’s not always as easy as it seems. Yes it will take hard work to complete and develop a strong business plan but it can be done. Along with a strong business plan you must also have faith and believe in what you stand for this two will also determine the success of your PLAN. 

Reference:

http://portfolio.prestonbailey.com/about-preston/ Retrieved October 28, 2011

http://davidtutera.com/index.php Retrieved October 28, 2011 
http://Finance2business.com/ Retrieved October 29, 2011

Rohnda Abrams. Succesfull Business Plan Secrets & Strategies 5th ed. California 1991-2010

Oprah Winfrey and Donald Trump Master the Plan!!!

Business and life goes hand in hand. In order for either to be successful one must have a plan. You have to lay down a sold foundation and build upon it. Those who are unsuccessful the ones who fail to plan. I remember working for a multi level marketing company the CEO would always say, “People don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan” (Primerica). This month in my Business Development Plan class we were ask to select two experts in the field of writing and reviewing business plans.

When thinking about business and success there are two individuals who inspire me to do more than what is expect of me to do to be successful. Donald Trump and Oprah Winfrey. Both have over achieve and over succeeded in the areas of business planning. The Both of them are very successful, they both have their or had their own television show and most importantly they both give back and allow views as my self to have the same opportunity they have had to succeed.

Oprah Winfrey was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi; in 1954 she lived a very trying and challenging life. At a very young age she was molested by some of her moms relatives, close friends, and boyfriend (angelfire.com). During her teen-age years she was able to go and live with her father and that is when the good of her life began. Oprah started out in television and radio at an early age. Oprah attended Tennessee University as a communications major. She was a co-host on a morning show called people talks. In 1981 she was hired at a talk show in Chicago and in September of 1985 they rename the show Oprah Winfrey. With in the first few years of the Oprah Winfrey show it had became one of the most successful show aired.

Donald Trump born in Queens, New York in 1946. Trump was a very bright student who attend The New York Military academy at the age of 13. He graduated from high school in 1964, and graduated from University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Economics (Biography.com). Over the years Donald Trump became a successful real estate developer. Trump brought hotel chains creating wealth and finding out all about business early own. His father was also in to real estate as well. As time moved on Trump start his own television reality series the Apprentice in 2004 in search of his newest underling (Biography.com).

Both Donald Trump and Oprah Winfrey took two very different routes in becoming successful, but both had to have a very strong business plan to get to where they are today.  I see myself as the female Donald Trump and use Oprah Winfrey as my idol to keep me motivate towards success. Both of their views has been outline throughout the fullsail University program in some shape, from or fashion.  Without a plan in place how can you expect for your business to have great success? JulieWise wrote an article on how to build your business Oprah Winfrey style. Julie talks about how no matter what industry you are in you can learn how to successfully build your business from Oprah Winfrey. Julie identifies three of the most important strategies Winfrey uses to build a business: Managing relationships, defining your purse and focusing on core value (Julie Wise).

Your business plan has to define some key components investors looking for in a business plan. Those components are: executive summary, company history, marketing plan, operational strategy, and financial statements if you are seeking money. These components allow investors to see your vision and believe in your vision. Winfrey and Trump both had to have master these key components before they could go in a direction of success. All of these components determine the success of your business and weather or not if your business had any chance to stand. 

Taking what I have learned in my Entertainment Business Program at fullsail university, the success from my role models and the journey Donald Trump and Oprah Winfrey to get where they are today, I know that although it may not be easy and nothing will be handed I will continue to work hard and focus on build a solid foundation for a solid business plan. I was always taught anything worth having, you have to put effort and hard work into.

Reference:

http://www.biography.com/people/donald-trump-9511238?page=2 retrieved September 20, 2011

http://blog.abn.org.au/grow-your-business/build-your-business-oprah-winfrey-style retrieved September 30, 2011

http://www.angelfire.com/ne/lliegirls/WINFREY.html retrieved September 29, 2011

Tips on Social Media!

Social Media is the new marketing tool for the entertainment industry. It’s a way to keep your current clients update with information about current and ongoing information. Social media allows you to save money and time while allowing driving new audience to your business. I was reading a website called Clicknewz, this website gave me several tips and advice on using the social media network.

Listed below you will find smart ways to use social media successfully.

“1. Map Out A Clear Objective Your social media plan should stand on its own two feet, and not even include “how to get better search engine rankings”. Consider how you would use social media properties if the search engines did not exist. Ideas to consider in your overall objective might include:

• Branding
• Networking
• Exposure
• Relationship/Trust Building
• Customer Relations

2. Customer Comes First While mapping out your objective, consider what your customer – or your ideal website visitor – wants to see from you. Get an image of that ideal person clearly in your mind, and consider what they see on their end with everything that you do. They are the person you ultimately want to attract into your funnel, so you want to make a great impression no matter where they find you on the web.

3. Consistent, Quality Content The content that you post to social media properties should be both consistent as in regular updates, and also consistent with your overall message or objective.

If you are an MLM recruiter for example, provide quality resources for recruits. If you own an ecommerce gardening site, offer gardening tips. Whatever your message, you want to make it consistent across the web. At the same time, being consistent with your message and your branding lends towards your goal of relevance and theming when it comes to SEO.

4. Focus on Content, Not Marketing Too often I see people get this backwards. If you focus on valuable, high-quality content then that content will do the marketing for you.

You shouldnt be digging or bookmarking your own content, but rather writing such great content that your readers give it an unsolicited digg or stumble. Your job is to write, and provide easy access to social media services where your readers can share your content with their friends & groups.

When people like what you have to say, they will share it – period. And when they share it, the search engines will take notice. Write something great, and let the rest happen naturally!

5. Caution: Dont Over-Optimize! Obviously you want top search engine rankings for specific keyword phrases, but be careful… because there is such a thing as over-optimization. Using the same anchor text everywhere that you link to (or request a link to) your site leaves a ‘digital footprint’ too, throwing up a red flag that you may be trying to manipulate the search results.

To avoid this, you want to use natural variations in anchor text for the links that point back to your primary website. You need a certain number of “click here” or similar links to give balance to your optimization strategy.

6. Stop Linking To Your Home Page “Deep Links” or links pointing to internal pages on your website (or blog) help to give it authority and depth. It is not natural to have hundreds of links pointing to your (general) home page, and none pointing to your internal content pages.

Social media is all about micro-topical discussions, so consider how you can introduce internal sections or pages of your website into these conversations.

Tip: Your home page may not be the best link to share with someone you meet while networking on social sites. Consider linking to your “about me” page instead for a more personable introduction into your site.

7. Be a Valuable Resource There’s a reason its called Social Media, and not Self-Promotional Media. Keep that in mind when you are considering what you will post to your social media properties.

If all you post is self-promotional links and requests, you will eventually become a part of your readers “noise” and ultimately be filtered out. They may not unfollow or delete you, but they will begin to scan over your posts and tweets without even realizing it.

Avoid this by becoming a valuable resource in your niche. One way you can do this is by sharing links to domains that you don’t own. And I don’t mean your own squidoo lenses or MySpace profiles – I mean domains you have ZERO association with. Provide value to your groups.

You mean, you want me to *gasp* promote my competitors? Yes – and become friends with them too. Interlinking and networking is powerful!

8. Use Social Networking To truly achieve your social media objectives; you’ll have to do some social networking too. Forget the word “competitor”. Other publishers or webmasters in your niche are your best friends in the social media landscape!

One of your goals should be to locate every competitor on your level (or within reasonable range) and create an “inner circle” of friends or business peers. These are people you can interview or be interviewed by, exchange links, joint venture with, etc. Stop looking at them as competition, and start looking at how you can leverage each other’s position in the marketplace!

Tip: Don’t ask for favors. And don’t flaunt the favors you do. Simply follow, comment on, link to, or otherwise become “known” to select publishers in your niche and I promise that they will notice… and generally begin to reciprocate. Given a little time the relationship will form naturally and be mutually beneficial.

9. Build Rapport Get involved in discussions, reply to blog comments, ask for feedback (and then respond to it and act on it!), etc. People want to know that you’re a real person, and not just a bout spitting out links and sucking in cash.

Don’t be afraid to have an opinion or to express your thoughts on hot topics within your niche. Your unique voice in the market will attract your ideal visitors and customers.

Social media gives you an opportunity to be personable. An ecommerce site has its limits when it comes to establishing trust and building long-term customer relationships, so use social media as an opportunity to truly connect with your target market.

10. Link Freely – And Don’t Apologize For It! This is somewhat of a combination of tips #3 and #7. (Terry Lynn).”

 Refernce: Click Newz 

I follow a lot of individuals in the event and planning industry and I have notice that Preston Bailey, Mindy Weiss both are very knowledgeable and keep current with their entire social media network. If you would like to find out industry tips, new information and where they are currently accessing either their blogs, website, twitter will keep you current. Both individuals follow the 10 steps listed about and more. 

Reference:
How to use social media successfully. Terry Lynn. http://www.clicknewz.com/1689/how-to-use-social-media-successfully/ Retrieved September 17, 2011

Digital and Fashion!

It was just a matter of time before some one would come up with the idea of online dressing rooms, 3D Fashion. I’m my opinion this would take the digital industry to another level. This would be good for the fashion industry and a great thing for Event Planners such as my self who plans weddings. This will give clients the opportunity to select their attire virtually without having to break their busy schedules.

Deschamps article on virtual fashion talked about how this technology would be very benefical to Japan, DeChamps believe that the 3D fashion would have a huge sale impact in Japan. I believe it would have a huge sales impact all over the world. There is a American company that has come up with the idea to enable consumers to use a 3D body scanner that will create a avatar of their body to allow them to try on cloths. This 3D online fitting room would be a big hit. It will help decrease the amount of returns items, consumer will be able to shop on line and they will be able to see first hand how the items look on them before the product arrives.

As a event planner and image consultant I am overjoyed. I’m sure this technology has a long time before it hit out market but trust and believe when it does Love Jonz Soiree will be on a roll.

Reference:

MJ Dechamps. September 2011 just-style management briefing: 3D technology in the fashion business.

http://www.just-style.com/management-briefing/3d-technology-in-the-fashion-business_id112058.aspx Retrieved September 3, 2011

http://www.cyberware.com/products/scanners/wbx.html Retrieved September 3, 2011

Robertson Publishing Website Review

If you are thinking about publishing a novel, poetry, fiction, hard back or soft check out the Robertson Publishing website. Robertson Publishing is a book Publishing Company that will help you with all your publishing and Distribution needs. They will help you complete your work, promote your work and help generate sells. Robertson Publishing will also proof read and provide you with a review before your material is released and make the necessary corrections.

Robertson Publishing website is simple the color scheme is nice but there in not anything really eye catching about the website when you first go to it other than its name at the top of the opening page. There was not very much color or pictures that capture my attention. However the information provide on the website about their services was very informative.

The content and focus of the website is very clear. First time visitor will know right off back what the purpose of this website and it’s intent. Although the design of the website tends to be a bit boring I would use this website for my services. They provide you with publishing and distribution services. They also go the extra mile to provide their customers with excellent service from what I saw and read about.

All of the hyperlinks work they also provide you with a site map to navigate through the site. The navigation of the site is fairly easy although when trying to go to the tool kit section, which is a hyper link, you have to provide a username and password. It does not give you instruction on how to get a username and password until you click out of the prompted box requesting for your login. It took me a few seconds to figure out what was going.

The content of the website is well written. The also provide you with a words of wisdom page which I thought was really cool and a great marketing tool to gain more business. I did not find any grammatical errors as the content was well put together and clear to the viewers about what they’re purpose was and the nature of their business. Robert Publishing did not have a page for the about me, which was a little confusing at first then I realized that the home page what the page that describe the nature of their business, their location and credentials. In my opinion, that can be a plus and a negative. For those that are looking to read about the company and are not computer or Internet savvy they will be looking for the about me section. For those you want to scheme through and get a general overall idea the information is provided to them as soon as the website is brought up.

The overall content and information of the site will draw business to them as far as the creativity of the design I thing they should hire a web design developer to make their site look more intriguing. However if I were looking for a publishing company I will look more into their services and if your look looking for one I suggest you check them out as well.

Reference:

Robert Publishing

http://www.robertsonpublishing.com/index.html Retrieved August 19, 2011

Joel's Advice on Self Publishing

Like everything else when publishing and distributing material you can face many different issues.  For those of you who would like to learn more about the publishing self publish, and distribution pro’s and con’s visit Joel Friedlander.

Joel Friedlander has an article that talks about the 10 worse self-publishing mistakes. In my opinion mistakes happened because there is a lack of research on the how to. Some people tend to take it in their own hands and publish their own material, which is fine, but research to make sure your decision to publish your own material is not a mistake.

According to Joel Friedlander listed below is the 10 Worse Mistakes a person can make when they decided to self publish and or publish a book period.

“Top 10 Worst Self-Publishing Mistakes

10. You thought you could re-use that ISBN you paid so much for since the novel you put it on last year isn’t selling anyway.

9. Everybody knows the words to the song, so it’s okay to quote lyrics from it throughout your book, right?

8. The photos looked fine on your screen, and that means they will look fine when they’re printed, it just makes sense.

7. I picked Arial for my book because the name reminded me of my middle school girlfriend.

6. I know they’re charging me $6,000 to publish my book, but I get 10 copies, absolutely free!

5. I thought it would sound more impressive if I wrote my memoir in the third person. All my sports heroes talk that way.

4. I really got the unit price down, but I had to print 10,000 copies. You have any room in your garage?

3. Sure, I included an invoice with all the books I sent to book reviewers. Hey, they don’t care, it’s just a big company paying the bill.

2. It was cheaper to print my novel as an 8-1/2″ x 11″ book because I got so many words on each page.

And the number 1 Worst Possible Self-Publishing Mistake:

1. What do you mean, I need a cover designer? Don’t books come with covers?”

Joel Friedlander provides lots and lots of information that will help prepare you for what to do and what not to do when publishing a book. Publishing a book can be lots of work and in order to be success and receive good book reviews and a good sales turn out you must make sure the steps you take are within in scope of the publishing laws and are Ethical. Take time out to learn more about Joel Friedlander he has a lot of advice to offer.

Reference:

Joel Friendlander. 10 Worse Possible Mistakes of Self Publishing. July 5 2010. http://www.thebookdesigner.com/2010/07/top-10-list-of-the-worst-possible-self-publishing-mistakes/ Retrieved August 20, 2011

Advice from the EXPERT!!!

As a business owner there are many areas that will require you to seek legal consultation. This last month in my Advance Entertainment Law class we talked about many different legal issues that may arise through out our journey in life on a business aspect that is. 

In order to better understand what life is like in the entertainment industry and how I can succeed and by pass many legal aspect. I decided to interview a colleague of mine, who is very talented, she is very inspiring. Rita Haley-Austin; Rita is beautiful inside out. Yes she is an attorney she's about business but she makes it her job to make sure she gives back and help those succeed that is inspired to succeed. Below you will find an interview I conduct with Rita about her journey and advice she would give to me.

Me: Tell me a little bit about yourself! (Educational Background and Work Experience)

Rita Haley- Austin Esq: My name is Rita Haley-Austin, Esq. I am a privare attorney based in Chicago Il. I am also licensed to practice in Minnesota and have license pending in Washington DC. I completed undergrad studies in Chicago with degrees in psychology and political science, and completed my JD in Minnestota. I practiced in Minnesota for a year (criminal defense, family law and civil litigation) before returning to Chicago.  Prior to becoming an attorney, and into the current, I have been actively operating an entertainment company in Chicago that specializes in artist and athlete management, business branding and houses a film and music recording studio. My law practice in Illinois consists of criminal defense, foreclosure defense, family law, entertainment and sports management, and civil litigation. 

Me: How did you gain an interest in the Legal aspect of Entertainment? What/Who influenced you?

Rita Haley- Austin Esq: I have always wanted to be a lawyer (and my family knew very early on that I would be) but I come from a musically inclined and artistic family. My mother was a professional singer prior to her early and untimely death, my father is a sculpture, one sister is an artist, the others graphic designer and fashion consultant. My grandfather played harmonica and guitar in a blues band for most of his life, and my children are all musically inclined. My oldest son (17) plays the drums, my youngest son (14) plays the guitar, my oldest daughter (16) sings, plays clarinet, piano, sax and is currently learning guitar. My aunts are both vocalist, uncle an actor, and I am a singer and writer (song and novelist). So...it was a natural mix to find a way to incorporate my love of the law and litigation with my love and background in the arts. I grew up in the motown and blues era's so I was heavily influenced by that type of music. Some of my favorites were Aretha, Bobby Blue Bland, BB King, Al Green, Ann Nesby and the like. I also enjoyed plenty of jazz (Al Jareau, Anita Baker, Kenny G)! Despite her issues of late, Whitney Houston had the most impact on my youth, along with Toni Braxton and Anita Baker. Their level of class and sophistication in what they did was just.....  As a young child my mother had my sister and I involved with acting and modeling. I did print ads for Sears, KMart and Kids R Us and I acted until I was 14. 

Me: What are some common legal issues your clients face and how can this issues be avoided?

Rita Haley-Austin Esq: My clients are always in the midst of some contract dispute. That seems to be the most common issue among the entertainment and athlete folks. Regardless of what is initially agreed upon, careers change and laws change. They are both to fluent to keep a strong hold of realistic expectations. For instance, at the beginning of an artists career they don't really have much leverage so they contract for what they can get. Often, when the artist 'blows up' their bargaining position changes and they want to (as well they should) renegotiate for a better deal. The labels are not very receptive to this. Then the artist wants out and the label wants to bind them. These cases usually wind up in court. Athletes are governed by collective bargaining agreements so its a bit different, but their are parts of the contract that are still negotiable and these are the areas that always come into question. 

Me: I am looking to open up my own production company that specialize in design and planning (Love Jonz Soiree Inc). I would like to have several departments that will meet the needs of many individuals in the entertainment industry. From Event and Meeting planning, Image Consulting, creating a design for a set, managing an artist to helping others develop their career. Just a one stop shop for all your entertainment needs. What advice can you give me from a legal stand point to help me get started. What are some laws I could look into to help my business become success?

Rita Haley- Austin Esq: Get your structure right from the beginning. You certainly want to be incorporated if you can. This protects your personal interests and separates you as a person from the business. Entertainment based businesses are considered high risk in every aspect because the likelihood of litigation is ever present. Insurance is key. Artists of every sort are temperamental and they expect you to make miracles happen (think of the case of the hairdresser who's client want her to make her look like Mariah Carey when the client is 4'9 200 pounds and has 3 inches of hair). When you can't give them what they want (no matter how unrealistic) they are ready to sue. Insurance is critical. Separate the departments, don't try to do everything yourself. If you are anything like me you will want to take care of everything yourself. Don't be afraid to delegate. Put competent people in key positions and then let them do their job. It will make your life a lot easier. (And make sure those people are qualified for their job. Hire an accountant, not your aunt Sally who does everyone's taxes). f there's a problem those people have their own insurance and are licensed by boards that make them legally responsible for their actions. Keep your paperwork in order. File registrations timely and pay your taxes. Don't mess with administrative agencies and hire an attorney at the onset. This is not the area to cut corners; any money you save on the front end will cost you 2 to 3 times as much on the back end if not more. 
Me:In addition to owning my own operation I am considering going to Law School to be come an Entertainment Lawyer. Tell me a little bit about you law school experience and some of your accomplishments.  Provide me with some advice and information that will help me decide if how to prepare myself mentally and physically for law school and if some advice and or resources that will help me determine if law school is truly for me.

Rita Haley-Austin Esq: LAW SCHOOL IS HARD.... its time consuming and very stressful. 

 1) make sure you have a support system in place. If you have a family, they should be very clear going in that you will not have much (if any) time for them during this time.

 2) Be prepared to work hard. This is not an endeavor to be taken lightly. everything you think can happen will. There's alot of reading, alot of thinking and very little else. 

 3) Do what they tell you to do. 

This interview with Rita has motivated me to continue on my journey in the entertainment industry as an entertainment lawyer. I thank Rita for all her help and encouragement. I know have a better understanding when it comes to business liabilities and laws.

Reference:

Rita Haley-Austin, Esq.

Attorney & Counselor

312-380-5733 (office)

320-656-5397 (fax)

708-359-5468

Industry Liabilities

When starting out in the entertainment industry one should always do your homework and look at all the possible things that can be a potential set back. Legal issues tend to be one of the most important aspects of ones business and can lead to good and or bad results. This week in my Entertainment Law Class we are talking about Industry Liabilities. Copyright seemed to be one of the biggest issues in the entertainment industry. Listed below you will find examples of some controversies that have an impact on the industry.

CASE#1 eBay loses copyright infringements in Europe.

This case talks about how eBay being sued for allowing its users to illegally use trade makes for big brand companies. eBay argues that they should not be liable for the products or information that the clients uses on their site to run a business. The courts rules against eBay and they are found responsible for trademark infringements. In my opinion I have to agree with the courts, eBay should pay close attention to the information and products that they allow their clients to sale. Because eBay is the host they should make sure each client has the permission and right to use other’s trademarks. A lot of the times clients will think that the company hold the license and will take full responsible if something like this were to arise. It is the responsibility of eBay to make sure their clients follow all the rules and law of copyrights. This will protect eBay from future lawsuits.

http://www.thinq.co.uk/2011/7/12/ebay-loses-trademark-infringement-case-europe/ Retrieved July 10, 2011

Case#2 YouTube, Google Vs Viacom

Viacom file a suited against Google and YouTube because they say “Google and YouTube are liable under the legal precedent set by MGM Studios v. Grokster for copyright infringement. What is more, Google knew before it bought YouTube that the website was based on pirated content. Even more, Google had techniques (simple, cheap ones) at its disposable to protect copyrights, and chose not to use them”(Viacom). Google defense their selves by saying Viacom is contradicting them selves. Now I would have totally agreed with Viacom had they not being use these sites their selves to upload their music and materials along with everyone else who is doing so. You cannot be doing wrong and them turn around and file a claim against someone because you feel as though they are violating your rights. YouTube is a huge site with thousands of users just like Google and when individuals sign up to use their site it’s is clear that you are not suppose to upload video or content that is not your original material. Instead of Viacom trying to file claim against Google they should file claim against those they feel are illegally using their work and imposing, as it is their own material. I agree with Google 100% to fight back and I am happy that the courts rule in their favor. I feel like Viacom was trying to have their cake and eat it to. Viacom tried several times to purchase the site and was denied. Now they want to sue for one billion dollars of Google’s money. I do not see this case going no further than it already have. I understand Viacom concerns and their reasoning, but in order to make a claim you cannot be a participating party in the wrongdoing you are suing for.

http://thenextweb.com/us/2010/03/18/youtube-viacom-lawsuit-explained/ Retrieved July 10, 2011

Case#3 LimeWire Losses RIAA case over copyright infringement

LimeWire is software that allows individuals to upload, download and share music file. They were sued by RIAA because they did not have a license to allow others to have access music that was produced by others. Unlike in the YouTube and Viacom case, YouTube has a license and is protect by the DMCA and LimeWire does not. LimeWire Vs RIAA is similar to the suits that were being filed against Napster. In the article they said they are not trying to shut the site down they just want them to obtain a license to become a legal site. I have to agree with the courts ruling in favor of RIAA because it not fair to the many artist out here in the world who is working hard to be successful in their career. They spend all this money on their material for other’s to illegally copy it without the owners consent. The artist job is their material that they create and publish and LimeWire wants to have access to their music then they should do it the legal way so that the artist is compensated and receives credit for their work. This will eliminate lawsuits similar to these cases.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/12/limewire-loses-riaa-case-_n_574338.html. Retrieved July 10, 2011

After review the following above cases my advise to my self and those who are look at a career in the entertainment industry, because careful when use material that do not belong to you. Make sure that if you are participating in any social network sites and they allow you to download and upload pictures and music that they have a license and or you receive a license to have access to other’s material. It is so easy to get caught up in lawsuit that you do not even see coming.

Website Review on Lonny Bereal

 

This site is appealing to any Promoter, A&R, and or anyone in the Entertainment Industry who would love to learn more about this amazing up and coming artist Lonny Bereal. This site also allows fan to support and stay current with the different events that goes on in Lonny’s World.

The site design layouts allow the viewers to read about all of the interviews and article written on Lonny, giving them a since on where he stands in the industry. I loved the fact that I was able to read up on Lonny and find out more about his background and all the different projects he was a part of. The home page of the site is more like a blog of Lonny’s World. I am a huge fan of many artists that Lonny works with and through this site I have become a huge fan of his work as well. Each title of each article is a link to the full interview and article about Lonny. The home page of the site allows you also view information that the artist shares via face book and twitter.

The site layout allows you the viewer to navigate easily through out the site. Clicking on the Bio page give a little background history of how the artist got start in the industry and where he is going. There is also a calendar that provides you with information on live show Lonny will be participating in. My advise to who ever maintain the website, would be to make sure the website information is up to date throughout the website. I notice the calendar is dated with dates in 2010.

The color, design layout and music are all consistent throughout the site.  I would have to say “Well Done”. The color is not too much but just enough to give the viewers a feel of his mellow personality. The overall flow of the site is neat and clean. The main focus of this site is to promote and increase his fan base.

The load time of this site is quite fast, even with the links to the music and articles. I did not find any typo’s or broken links. Overall just a great site, very information, easy to read, easy to navigate. I would recommend anyone whose interest in working with or getting to know more about this artist to view his site. You will not be disappointed in the information provided and or talent. 

www.lonnybereal.com 

Successful Event Planners (Production Managers)

Event planners (Production Managers) are the most efficient people who will assist you in making preparations for all your events in the most perfect way without making no mistakes and thus conforming its victory. They are individuals brewing with new ideas allowing their creative thinking to let every client to think out side of the box. Every now and then and Event Planner (Production Mangers) will help you organize the perfect event you have been thinking of. They take care of every minute details like budgeting, conforming dates, choosing and booking event sites or locations, parking and transportation, decorations, finalizing the matching tables and chairs, tents, security, perfect catering service, emergency plans, promotion, ticket sales, marketing and many more. In fact, event planners are those persons who will arrange everything for you exactly the way you want things to be. An event planner should be someone who has experience, skillfully trained and should efficient enough to work under all the pressures. Their career includes a great deal of communication and organizational skills as communication gap between the event producer and the client will lead to chaos, leaving a bad impression on its client.

Individuals who work as an Event Planner have the skill to work under pressure. They have a very intense schedule, they have to be well organized and have excellent time management skills. Their work hours sometime require them to around the clock. Most Event Planners (Production Managers) start out by freelancing and building up their clientele.  One well known successful Event Planner (Production Managers) would be Chad Hudson who is the owner and founder of Chad Hudson Events. He has years of experience in managing and producing successful events. He has worked with Warner Bros and many other well-known brands in the industry. Then we have Mindy Weiss who is a well know event planner; she has worked with several celebrities in the industries planning events from birthday parties to weddings.

A successful Event Planner usually is born with the eye of a tiger. They have talents that they were born with. They become successful through hard work, and excellent time management skills. Chad Hudson and Mindy Weiss both worked hard to learn balance to help get them where they are today…

Getting The YES

Getting The YES!

Negotiating is apart of every job and or lifestyle. I interview one of the booking agents who work at a local bar called Yoshi’s. This bar provides live entertainment from well know artist such as Eric Benet, En Vogue, Tank just to name a few. The interview below shows what it like getting the YES from another point of view.

Me: What is your job title and duties?

Marie Taylor: as a (artist booking agent) My duties are to negotiate the financial terms of the contract and when and where the band or artist will perform I also handle all financial matters in connection with the date and coordinate the scheduling logistics..

Me: What type of negotiation do you handle?

Marie Taylor: The type of negotiation I engage in is (integrative negotiation). This type of negotiation allows me to put my demands/concerns on the table so that everyone is clear on my overall intent and interest. This works best for me as everyone wins something in the end as opposed to distributive negotiation.

Integrative negotiation also assist with any conflicts which may arise, From my experience, I have been able to offer a lesser amount of money and still offer my counterpart something that can be beneficial to them, allowing me to integrate any issues big or small into a positive solution where both my counterpart and myself are satisfied with the outcome.

Me: What are some common mistakes the artist/clients make during a negotiation?

Marie Taylor: some of the most common mistakes artists/clients make during the negotiation process is not being fully prepared. To ensure that negotiations are a success, it takes careful preparation as well as innovative framing of any issues that may possibly occur. In addition, A lot of people tend to believe that the hard, up-front approach will get them what they ask for, cutting the time of negotiating down.  What they fail to realize is that, this approach will only make the counterpart rebel against any sort of compromise and the process will take a lot longer than expected, as the counterpart doesn't want to feel like they gave in without a fight.

Me: How can you gain more leverage?

Marie Taylor: A client can gain more leverage by first trying to establish a relationship with the other party and also with the ability to persuade…. (Persuasion) is one of the most important negotiation skills to have. If you master this skill you may actually get what you request.

Me: How do you separate the people from the problem?

Marie Taylor: separating the people from the problem can be a very hard thing to do especially during the actual process of negotiating. It becomes a challenge to not take things to heart and genuinely try to figure out a mutual solution that benefits both parties, without allowing emotions to guide your decisions.  During the process anything one person says can be misconstrued and taken personally. The key is about not letting emotions get involved but remaining professional and ultimately reaching a fair agreement with the other party.

Me: What other tools can one use when negotiating?

Marie Taylor:  processing the proper tools to become a better negotiator determines the relationship and out come some of these tools include...

-  Finding A strategy that will be beneficial for both parties

- Try not to confuse tough and up-front as an effective method of negotiating

- Figure out how you respond to conflict… its important to make sure your reactions during the process are appropriate.

Me: How do you separate the people from the problem?

Marie Taylor: Emotions significantly reflect how people deal with things. Emotions can play a positive or negative role depending on the situation. Its important while negotiating to put emotions to the side to ensure that you get the best possible outcome.

Me: Final words and or advice you can give to those starting out.

Marie Taylor: Be Humble and always be prepare. Research the situation if you can and provide supporting documents to back up your reasoning’s.