In the event industry, it can be tough to catch a breath! That’s why it’s important to take a step back, find new motivation, and spend a few days with other people who just get it. The Knot Workshop in Chicago at The LondonHouse was a day designed to provide event professionals the space to learn, mingle, engage, and connect. And let’s not forget how important it is to relax over cocktails!

Attendees of The Knot Workshop in Chicago listen to keynote presentations.
Attendees of The Knot Workshop in Chicago listen to keynote presentations.

The event team at The Knot gets it. So, we knew that our focus in capturing the spirit of the event with a commercial photography style that could be just as focused as these industry-defining event professionals. And we wanted to have a little fun, too.

After all, our small but mighty team of corporate and event photographers at Gold Grid Studios have long been in the event industry in Chicago. We have experience as diverse as crafting images that depict the important causes. We’ve photographed non-profit fundraisers, national meeting summits, innovative conferences like The Knot Workshop. (Our lead photographers also photograph weddings, thus our wonderful relationship with The Knot! But if you’re looking specifically for wedding photography in the professional event industry, hop on over to www.rebeccamarie.com).

“Getting Stuff Done” was the tagline of The Knot Workshop in Chicago. The Knot and Gold Grid Studios definitely have similar priorities.

A branded coffee mug, pen, and cookie were giveaways at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.
Workshop participants left with inspiring thoughts as well as some The Knot-themed swag!
Attendees at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.

Event professionals understand that details are important to the look and feel of any successful event, so we knew to capture every one, right down to the fresh blueberries that topped the desserts by LondonHouse! The Knot Workshop incorporated all-white, textural centerpieces from Divine Designs & Events for a sharp, fresh look.  These were the details that set the pace for all of the motivation, ideation, and learning offered by each of the day’s speakers.

The Knot Workshop incorporated colorful treats and tastes from local catering businesses, like these berry and cream treats.
The Knot Workshop incorporated colorful treats and tastes from local catering businesses.
Table display and decor at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.
Sophisticated, minimalist table decor provided the perfect ambiance for The Knot Workshop.
Room photograph of table decor at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.
Circular table settings provided a great community space for networking over small bites and dinner courses.
The Knot Workshop Chicago keynote room set-up.
HMR Designs created the stage backdrop to create an engaging space for the event’s speakers.

The speakers completely rocked the stage at The Knot Workshop. Industry professionals included several local pros from Chicago as well as speakers known nationally for their work and expertise in event planning and coordination. Attendees absorbed presentations that included everything from useful tips, to personal / business experiences, case studies, and ideas that opened up continued conversations throughout the day.

Marcy Blum of Marcy Blum Associates in New York City was among the featured speakers at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.
Marcy Blum of Marcy Blum Associates in New York City was among the featured speakers at The Knot Workshop.
Rishi Patel, of HMR Designs shared advice for creating engaging, designed spaces.
Rishi Patel, of HMR Designs shared advice for creating engaging, designed spaces.
Workshop attendees writing down notes at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.
Workshop attendees learned from event industry leaders throughout each session.

The Knot Pro, by The Knot is a highly useful resource for wedding and event professionals, offering a digital interface where industry pros can upload their portfolios, connect with clients, and each other. The team at The Knot is an inspiring group of industry leaders who understand the wedding industry and help professionals personalize their pitch to connect with the right couples, and offer relevant tips and tools for success in the wedding industry.

Two women networking at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.
Networking opportunities brought event professionals together to discuss ideas, share portfolios, and engage meaningful conversation.
A woman networks with another conference attendee at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.

If you are hosting a corporate event, and looking for authentic corporate event photography, attention to detail, and meaningful storytelling, let us know! We’d love to learn about you and what you are working on to change your industry, business, or organization in positive ways.

Attendees at The Knot Workshop in Chicago pose for a photo.

Powerful imagery is not just photography – done well, it can define your brand and showcase to the world what you stand for.

Two women hug to say hello at The Knot Workshop in Chicago.
Rebecca Ickes, founder of Gold Grid Studios (front row, right), joins a group photo with other industry professionals.
Rebecca Ickes, founder of Gold Grid Studios (front row, right), joins a group photo with other industry professionals.

Attendees at The Knot Workshop in Chicago pose for a photo.

Thank you’s go out to the team that worked alongside Gold Grid Studios to make this event happen!

Nuage Designs for gorgeously patterned table runners and a unique rug on stage, Hall’s Rentals for the blue chairs that tied in the 50 shades of blue theme to the event. SQN Events and Meldeen for dreaming up the theme of The Knot Workshop in Chicago. HMR Designs for the Soul Cycle-inspired stage backdrop.

Gold Grid Studios also thanks all of the phenomenal, inspiring speakers:

Rishi Patel from HMR Designs, Ali Phillips of Engaging Events by Ali, Hope Weis of Hope Weis Consulting, Desireé Dent from Dejanae Events, and Marcy Blum of Marcy Blum Associates.