We were lucky to catch up with Jimmy Surace recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jimmy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?

We went back and forth for a while trying to select names. I look back and laugh at some of our options… ‘Event Curators’ was floating around for a bit (superhero much?). Finally our VP of Ops said ‘Today’s August 1st (8/1), so what about Eight One Events?’ We all kind of sat silent for a moment but then agreed, ‘That’s it.’ It was more than just a date to us… It was the moment my business partners and I decided to take the leap. We were sick of having to produce events for companies that were so profit focused. The joy and excitement of creating events and unforgettable memories was lost. On 8/1, Eight One Events was born and that joy was restored… and just ask any one of our clients, we certainly bring the joy!

Side note: In the beginning, we got 81 Events (eighty one) all the time, but since that is both Britney and Beyonce’s birth year we allowed it!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am the Creative Director of Eight One Events. We work with corporate companies to give them the greatest experience for their incentive trips, Sales Kick Off Meetings, Forums, Executive Meetings, etc. We use our creativity and client relationships to produce memorable events. We learn the brand, the clients and the attendees to truly bring something unique and exciting to life. Whether it be a Boy George surprise concert, or a simple luncheon, we treat each moment as the special memory it will become.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

The event company I worked for at the time was hired by my business partners company for design services way back in the day. I wouldn’t say it was love at first site lol. In fact, we didn’t really even like each other at first. But, there was this undeniable synergy on any project that three of us would be involved in. We were always the last ones to leave, the first ones to show up. We would text after hours about projects and design ideas. Eventually friendship (best friendship) was formed and then 5 years later we all own a business together.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

It’s simple, be friendly. Make people want to come work for you. Create an environment that is ‘fun.’ Our industry can be pretty heavy at times with insane deadlines and work loads, so creating a space that is ‘light’ can help with those stresses. Knowing your team wants to work with you or be on your jobs is a rewarding feeling. When you can get them to respect you and like you will never have stronger, harder workers.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.eightoneevents.com
• Instagram: @eightoneevents
• Facebook: Eight One Events
• Linkedin: Eight One Events

Image Credits
Yvonne Goll Photography