Category: Blog

Believe it or not, the NFL season is halfway through. The teams have found their identities, new stars have emerged, and the experts are already beginning to make their Super Bowl LII predictions. Though it’s nearly impossible to find a consensus when it comes to who will be competing in the big game—the Eagles, Patriots, Chiefs, and Seahawks all seem like reasonably good bets—chances are, if last year is any indication, it’s going to be a spectacular game.

Although no one can say for certain who will be playing in the final game, as a spectator, you can say for certain that you will be watching the Big Game in real-time at the stadium. As leading providers of world-class custom sports packages, we at Superior Executive Services can help build the perfect Super Bowl package for you or your business. Learn more about our packages here and ensure your spot for one of America’s greatest sporting events.

Read on to learn about five of the greatest championship games.

Super Bowl LI

We’ll start with the most recent and perhaps greatest of all time. The 2017 championship had it all: the largest comeback (down by 25 points), a monster performance from a future Hall of Famer (Tom Brady threw for 466 yards), and the cementation of our era’s dynasty (it gave Brady and Belichick their fifth championship in seven tries).

Super Bowl XXXIV

Often remembered for the phrases “One Yard Short” and simply “The Tackle”, the 2000 matchup between the Tennessee Titans and the St. Louis Rams was an instant classic. It was the first Super Bowl for the newly named Tennessee Titans, and at the time spectators saw record-breaking performances from quarterback Kurt Warner. Those in attendance were at the edge of their seats until the very end when Rams linebacker Mike Jones stopped Titans receiver Kevin Dyson one yard shy of the end zone as time expired.  Not only was this one of the greatest games on the field, but off the field, it also took on a historical importance for being the “Dot-com Super Bowl”—a label created because of all of the dot-com companies that purchased a large number of advertisements.

Super Bowl XXV

Perhaps one of the most legendary kicks in Super Bowl history, this 1991 matchup between the New York Giants and Buffalo Bills is often remembered for the heartbreaking “wide right” missed kick that gave the Giants the win. It also marked the Bills’ failed four-year run at the Super Bowl—from 1990 to 1993 they lost four consecutive Super Bowl games.  

Super Bowl XLIX

This 2015 game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots is often remembered for the Pete Carroll’s controversial decision to pass the ball instead of running it at the Patriots’ 1-yard line, which resulted in a Patriots’ interception and, therefore, victory. When people speak of “the worst call in Super Bowl history,” this game is often first mentioned. But nonetheless, it was one of the greatest of all time.

Super Bowl XIII

This 1979 matchup between two great quarterbacks—Roger Staubach and Terry Bradshaw—and a legendary defense, the Steel Curtain, had everything you would want in a Big-Game matchup. The Steelers ultimately won the game, helping to cement their legacy as “The team of the 70s”. If you have never seen the highlights of this classic game, they are worth seeing. Check them out here.

Regardless of whether it is an office party or a large corporate gathering, event planning is hard work. In addition to finding the right time, the best food, and the most fitting venue, you also have to pick the perfect entertainment—if, of course, it’s that kind of event.

When you get all of these decisions right, typically the event is a monster success. However, just as good food and entertainment can take an event to the next level, bad food and poor entertainment can make your event a disaster.

In today’s blog, we at Superior Executive Services are going to focus on just one of the elements of event planning—entertainment. As leaders in corporate hospitality and entertainment, we understand the ins and outs of corporate event planning and how to make an event a success. Specifically, we do this through tailoring and executing one-of-a-kind trips to some of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, like the Masters and Super Bowl. View our sports packages here, and contact us for more information.

Read on to learn about some of the things to keep in mind when booking corporate entertainment for your next event.

Know Your Goal

All big events begin with a plan, and the key to any plan is to first have a defined goal. This should be the first step you take when looking for corporate entertainment. Is your goal to educate? Or to purely entertain? If it is to educate, then you likely won’t want to make entertainment a large part of the event. Rather, you will want to use some form of entertainment as a way for your attendees to take a break and relax.

On the other hand, if your goal is to create a memorable, entertaining evening, then make sure you do just that. Inviting performers, taking a trip to amusement parks, and surprising your employees with an exclusive trip to the Kentucky Derby are all potentially excellent options.

Know Your Audience

An essential part of determining the event’s goal is to know the audience. Without having a good understanding, you are merely guessing—and with so much at stake, you don’t want it all to be riding on a hunch. Once you have defined your goal, you can then begin to tailor the perfect solution. For example, if you’re wanting to reward a few key employees—who also happen to be huge sports fans—why not take them to a world-class sporting event? If this is something that sounds like the perfect option for you, check out our sports packages.

Know Your Budget

Though corporate entertainment is an investment that can have great returns, exceeding your budget and spending more than you need to can have devastating consequences. Before beginning the search for the perfect corporate entertainment, know how much you can afford. This will not only help narrow the search, but it will also give you set parameters for negotiating.

Know What’s Included

After you have found a potential entertainer, make sure you ask them what’s included in their fees and packages. Though some companies will practically advertise this information, some will withhold information, leaving you vulnerable to hidden fees. At Superior Executive Services, for example, we strive to lay out all the details of our packages and offer our clients unrivaled treatment and hospitality—which to us means, taking care of virtually every logistical step from the moment our clients arrive until they depart.

Know Your Entertainers

Ask for testimonials and reviews from your entertainment providers before agreeing to anything. If part of their package entails corporate travel services, for example, request model trips, itineraries, and ask what type of clientele they have served. If they are not forthright with this information, be wary. People who provide exceptional hospitality and entertainment have the reviews and ability to prove it to you. Though it’s hard to guarantee that the entertainment you get for your event will be exciting and worth your money, you can get a good idea by reading their reviews and assessing their offerings.

If you are an event planner looking for corporate travel services or entertainment, be sure to keep the above-mentioned list in mind. If you are interested in rewarding your employees with a company retreat or a trip to a spectacular sporting event, consider Superior Executive Services. Need tickets to the Kentucky Derby or Masters? We’ve got you covered! Need luxury accommodations while you are there? We can take care of that, too—we’ll even stock the fridge with your favorite foods and drinks.

For the most part, anytime you take the initiative to signal to your employees that you value their hard work, dedication, and commitment, your gesture will not hurt your business. However, if you are going to go through all of the effort to organize a corporate event, the baseline shouldn’t be to not hurt your business. You should strive to provide your team with the type of entertainment that makes a difference, both in their lives and in your organization.

At Superior Executive Services, we specialize in corporate hospitality and entertainment. We do this by tailoring individualized, one-of-a-kind trips to some of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.

We know that organizing and planning truly special, impactful entertainment is much easier said than done. We also know that most people don’t have the experience and industry-expertise to do this—without having to devote months to planning. That’s why we are here to help. In today’s blog, we would like to share with you some ways you can improve the type of entertainment you offer to your employees.

Below are 3 pitfalls and mistakes you should avoid when planning corporate entertainment.

Not Thinking About The Impact Of The Event.

When planning entertainment and employee appreciation trips, far too many organizations forget to really think about the effect of their efforts. In many ways, this could be seen as going through the motions. You book entertainment or an event not because of what it can achieve, but for the simple fact of having something on the calendar. In this case, it is almost inevitable that the performance, gathering, or event will feel forced. In other words, it will feel insincere and your employees will be looking for a reason to dip out early.

To avoid this, consider what type of entertainment will impact everyone. For instance, if you are planning a networking event, don’t book a night out in an environment that is loud and distracting. In other words, don’t get a band. Regardless of how good the music or ambiance is, it won’t help accomplish your goal, what you set out to do.

Not Taking Into Consideration Your Demographic.

Admittedly, it can be hard to understand other people, even your employees. When put in charge of entertaining employees or expressing appreciation, we naturally think, “what would I like”. This is something you must be aware of. Not taking into consideration your target audience signals that you haven’t bothered to truly get to know your employees and what they like.

Not Working With The Right People.

Many companies assume that they can handle the whole entire planning process on their own. While some companies may be able to do this, most companies lack the time, network, and expertise to plan truly meaningful entertainment—the type that can boost employee satisfaction, improve team comradery, and truly signal respect and value to your employees.

So What’s The Easiest Solution?

The solution is simple: hire corporate entertainment professionals, like Superior Executive Services.

At Superior Executive Services we have perfected the art of corporate entertainment. We don’t simply strive to entertain our clients—your employees in this case—we aim to provide the kind of world-class services that make lasting impressions. We accomplish this through all-inclusive packages to prestigious sporting events, like the Super Bowl, Kentucky Derby, the Masters, and through luxury golf vacations.

As an employer, it’s important to show that you value your employees, not simply by praising them with words, but through clear and resounding actions. Successful corporate entertainment can help you accomplish this. It can signal respect, gratitude, and encourage your employees to keep up the hard work and continued improvement. If you value your employees, let them know, because happy, content employees are better for everyone. And when planning your next event to entertain and reward your employees avoid the above-mentioned mistakes.

At Superior Executive Services, we strive to be at the forefront of corporate entertainment and hospitality. Not only do we do this through all-inclusive packages to prestigious sporting events—like the Masters, Kentucky Derby, and luxury golf vacations—but we also offer our clients dependable and luxurious private flights.

Read on to learn about five of the advantages of booking a charter flight.

Flexibility

When you book a flight with a regular commercial airline, you have to tailor your schedule based on flight availability. When you charter a plane for your private use, however, you get to be at the helm of your itinerary. You not only get to choose the time and location, but because charter flights can land at smaller airports your range of possible destinations is significantly expanded.

Luxury

If you have ever flown first class and thought you experienced luxury, you are in for a pleasant surprise. Flying on a private airplane is the epitome of luxury. Although not all private flights are luxurious, at Superior Executive Services, we extensively vet our charter partners to make sure they offer the air chartering services that live up to our high expectation. We can stock the plane with all of your requests—within reason. And unlike commercial flights where a handful of stewardesses have to service all of those onboard, in a private jet rental, your charter experts will be focused on catering to solely you and your guests’ needs.

Privacy

This is probably one of the greatest advantages of chartering a plane. Whether you are discussing private matters or simply want seclusion, having your own private aircraft affords unbeatable privacy. Additionally, because you and your chosen guests are the only ones on the plane, you’ll have the luxury of not having to confine your possession to overhead storage or under your seat. You can spread your laptop and possession around the cabin as though it is your private office.

Productivity

As we mentioned, when you charter a private aircraft, you take the hassle out of flying. Not only do you not need to arrive at the airport 2 hours early, but you also get to skip the crowded waits for departure. And because chartered aircrafts can land at almost any airport in the world, your flight schedule can accommodate to your itinerary—not the other way around. And once on board, you are able to work in a comfortable environment free of all distractions, therefore, maximizing productivity.

Convenience

In addition to the above-listed reason, convenience is certainly one of the main reasons why so many executives and CEOs opt for charter flights. The process of flying from a commercial airport can be both time-consuming and a major hassle. Along with having to check in your bags and hope they arrive with your plane, there are also long waits, airport security lines, delayed flights, and hordes of people. These pains can all be eliminated when you charter a private jet. 

If you think that charter flights are just reserved for CEOs and millionaires, you may be pleasantly surprised to find how affordable they actually are. Whether you want to rent a jet or a private helicopter, we can take the complexity out of chartering a private aircraft and ensure that your trip is tailored to meet your exact needs. Contact us today to learn more!

As we’ve mentioned before, the Kentucky Derby is one of the world’s most prestigious events. Not only is it a weekend full of excitement, history, and luxury, but it also is a gathering with many long-standing traditions. Though many of these traditions seem quite natural and like they require no explanation—simply because they’ve been happening for years now—upon closer examination, their origins aren’t always that clear. In this blog, Superior Executive Services would like to turn our focus on some of the most popular Kentucky Derby traditions.

Why the Roses?

The Kentucky Derby is often referred to as the running of the roses. But have you ever considered why? Sure, we know that the fastest horse is given a garland of roses, but why? The tradition of awarding the winner with a rose began in the 1800s, but the full arrangement began in 1932 when the winner received a garland of roses from a local florist, thus, initiating a new tradition. The single rose that points up from the center of the garland is intended to symbolize the “struggle and heart necessary to reach the Derby Winner’s Circle.” To learn more about this tradition check out this video.

Why the Big Hats?

Unlike other sporting events, where you might throw on your favorite player’s jersey or paint your face, the derby doesn’t offer this sort of opportunity. Instead, derby garb is typically associated with wealth, posh fashion, and big hats. The most likely explanation for the big hats dates back to the 1870s when founder Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr. sought to transform the Churchill Downs event from a place for seedy patrons to a place for high society and, therefore, high fashion. He and his wife set out on a campaign to get Louisville’s upper class to attend the event. Within a few years, their effort paid off, and the derby became a regal affair where both men and women flaunted their finest threads.

Over time the media took a great interest in who was attending and what they were wearing, inspiring attendees to do all they could to stand out among a well-dressed crowd—i.e. wear big hats. Nowadays, the tradition of big hats continues to be a reliable part of the Kentucky Derby, with patrons sporting bigger, more flamboyant hats each year.

Why the Mint Juleps?

Made of Kentucky bourbon, Curacao, Renet-Branca, Demerara syrup, and mint leaves, mint juleps are without a doubt the drink of the Kentucky Derby. You are sure to see one or two of these being consumed at the race. In fact, it is estimated the derby goers drink almost 120,000 over the course of the Kentucky Derby weekend. Though the reason for this drink’s success is unclear, we do know that it has been the star drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1938. This may be one of those cases where the simplest origin explanation is also the best explanation: it’s a drink that highlights the magic of Kentucky Bourbon, and it’s delicious—simple enough.

Why the Celebrities?

Throughout the years, the derby has had a special appeal to celebrities, and the reason for this is quite simple: it is one of the world’s most prestigious events. With a rich history, electric atmosphere, and a label like “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” who wouldn’t want to go? Plus, someone has to buy those $1,000 mint juleps (proceeds go to charity) and $15,000 Mansion seats.

Want to experience the derby like a celebrity? Superior Executive Services can make this happen. Not only do we offer the opportunity to charter a private jet, but we also offer a range of packages and amenities that’ll allow you and your guests to experience the event in total style.

Whether you are looking to reward key clients or treat your employees to an unforgettable company retreat, our team of professionals goes above and beyond to provide premier corporate hospitality and entertainment.

There are 32 teams in the National Football League. Combined, the total value of these 32 teams is $62.9 billion, which comes out to an average value of $1.97 billion a team. This number is nearly as much as the MLB and NBA combined. In short, it would suffice to say that the NFL is one of the best and most ubiquitous businesses in the world. It only follows that their championship, the Super Bowl, is one of the biggest, most elite sporting events in the world.

At Superior Executive Services, we understand the prestige and magic of this big event, and we want to bring that experience to our clients. We are a sports marketing group specializing in tailoring and executing itineraries for companies looking to wow their clients or reward their employees with all-inclusive packages to renowned sporting events. From arrival to departure, our team of professionals goes above and beyond to provide unrivaled corporate entertainment and hospitality. Check out our packages!

Interested in learning more about the Super Bowl? Here is a short introduction to the Super Bowl and why it’s referred to as “The Big Game”.

The History

For over 50 years, the two best teams in the league have gathered in front of a packed stadium to duke it out. Originally, this historic game took place in January, but since the 80s, the game has been played on the first Sunday of February. The game’s rich history has included incredible comebacks, wins from underdogs, and jaw-dropping performances from football legends like Starr, Bradshaw, Montana, Smith, Elway, Brady, and more.

The Tradition

From Roman numerals to the celebratory “I’m going to Disney World”, the Super Bowl is full of long-standing traditions. Though it was nowhere near as big 40 years ago, the halftime show has become a key part of the game’s tradition, so much so that, for some people, it eclipses the actual game. Similarly, the commercials that air during the showdown—which can cost around $2.5 million for a 30-second spot—have become a unique tradition that gives the event a high-stakes aura.

The Atmosphere

The atmosphere of the big game is like no other. Knowing the stakes, the electricity of the halftime show, and the fact that an average of 100 million people are watching at home makes the event a truly prestigious event. In fact, it’s so captivating and unique that it’s able to turn non-football fans into fans. In addition to the game and the halftime show, the big event also includes entertainment, activities, player appearances, and an all-around fun-for-all experience.

The Luxury

For some, having a ticket to the big Sunday showdown is luxurious enough. However, at Superior Executive Services, we go beyond this and aspire to tailor an all-around luxurious experience for our client.

With such a history and prominent place in our culture, it’s easy to see why the Super Bowl is such an amazing event and an absolute must-see for football fans and non-football fans alike. Take your corporate event planning to the next level, and wow your key clients or employees with an unforgettable trip.

Often referred to as “the toughest ticket in sports,” the Masters golf tournament is easily one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events. This classic gathering takes place in the first week of April every year. As part of its way of upholding the tradition and integrity of the event, the host club, Augusta National, sells an extremely limited number of tickets.

With Superior Executive Services, you, your clients, and/or colleagues can be some of the lucky few at the heart of this action. Not only will you experience all the Masters has to offer, but you will do so while experiencing unrivaled hospitality and services.

Read on to find out what makes this four-day event so remarkable.  

History

The first Augusta National Tournament began in 1934, and it has been running ever since—apart from a two-year break during WWII, at which point the course was used to raise cattle and turkey to assist with the war effort.

The tournament is rife with history and has been the setting for some of golf’s greatest moments. When you visit the Masters, you’ll be able to bask in the history of legendary golfers, like Jack Nicklaus who holds the Masters record with six wins, and Tiger Woods and Arnold Palmer who are tied for the second most wins, four apiece.

Tradition

From honorary starters, presidential visitors, and the iconic green jacket, the Masters is an event strong with tradition. The prohibition of cell phones and cameras, and keeping the concession prices the same as they’ve always been, only adds to their rich tradition. Other unique customs include the light-hearted par three tournament, the Champion’s Dinner, the closing ceremony, and the strict caddie dress code—caddies are required to wear the club’s signature overalls.

Beauty

Spring in Georgia is a beautiful thing. Spring at the Masters is a magical thing. When it comes to maintenance, there is perhaps no other course in America that can match Augusta’s budget and resources. Consequently, the result is an eye-poppingly immaculate course with stunning beauty.

Luxury

When you book a trip to the Masters through Superior Executive Services, you’re also guaranteeing a luxurious experience for you and your guests. Included in your trip to Augusta is a stay at a gated-community home of your choice—which we will stock with food and drinks of your choosing—access to our high-profile five-star hospitality club, and unbeatable treatment and hospitality on our part.

With such exclusivity, history, and beauty, it’s easy to see why the Masters at Augusta National is a must-see for everyone and a bucket-list destination for golf fans. If you would like to offer this unique experience to your key customers or employees, Superior Executive Services can make it happen. From the time you book to the time you depart, we’ll take care of every logistical problem and let you focus on what matters: having fun and building relationships with your lucky guests.

We’ve all heard the cliche “work hard, play hard”. The very fact that we have all heard it is a testament to just how important it is—which is also to say: we all need and value good work-life balance. It’s essential to our jobs, our lives, and our well-being.

As an employer, it’s important to acknowledge this, not just through words but through clear and resounding actions. When you signal respect and gratitude, you encourage your employees to keep up the hard work and continued improvement. If you value your employees, let them know, because happy, content employees are better for everyone.

At Superior Executive Services we have perfected the art of corporate entertainment. We don’t simply aim to entertain our clients—your employees in this case—we strive to give our clients the kind of world-class services that sticks with them for years to come. We do this through all-inclusive packages to prestigious sporting events, like the Kentucky Derby, the Masters, and through luxury golf vacations.

Whether you are looking to reward your top executives or your whole staff, making them a part of a Superior Executive Services itinerary is a sure way to express your gratitude and subsequently receive a great return from your employees.

Here are some of the effects you can expect when you reward your employees with a trip planned and executed by Superior Executive Services.

Build Relationships

Workplace relationships are typically already strong, especially in situations where you have mostly veteran employees. Day to day, they rely on and trust each other. Their bond has been fused by hard work and shared goals. However, sometimes it take an outside of work gathering to really solidify bonds. It takes an opportunity for them to relax and socialize in an environment free of stress, work, and any guilt they may feel from being overly socially minded while at work.

Boost Morale

After building stronger bonds and taking the trip of a lifetime, you can rest assured that morale will be soaring. When morale is high you can expect an increase in productivity. You might find employees coming in early and staying late without being asked, simply because they enjoy their workplace. Additionally, when employee morale is high, you can expect to see heightened levels of creativity, which can be perfect for generating new ideas. It can also lead to a reduced number of absences—low morale employees are more likely to look for a reason to take off rather than dragging themselves to work.

Reduce Stress

Having a whole trip planned specifically for the purpose of relaxing and having fun is a dream respite for overworked, stressed employees. Creating this opportunity for your employees can replenish their energy levels and significantly reduce their stress. Additionally, rewarding them with a trip to a prestigious event reinforces your belief in them. It shows that you value their work, causing them to feel secure, calm, and confident in their work—i.e. not stressed.

Decrease Turnover

When you have happy employees who feel valued, respected, and fairly compensated, they are not going to want to look for other job opportunities. And in today’s job market, it’s important to retain good talent once you have it. By showing them your appreciation through rewards, like a personally tailored trip, you can do your part to make sure they stick around. Additionally, the longer you have employees typically the better they get at their job. Plus, who wants to waste time training new employees and waiting for them to truly integrate into your company?

Get Better Output

When you combine all of these post-trip effects—stronger relationships, higher morale, low stress, and committed employees— the result is, of course, better output. And better output is ultimately what is going to impact your bottom line and create growth from top to bottom.

Being able to have fun and let loose, so to speak, is the perfect way to recharge your employees’ batteries. Show your top earners that you value their work through world-class entertainment. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Masters, Kentucky Derby, or another premium event, Superior Executive Services will create and execute a trip that will truly wow your employees.

Contact us today for package details and pricing!

Every year, on the first Saturday of May, the city of Louisville, Kentucky, becomes the stage for one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events: The Kentucky Derby. Often called “the Run of the Roses” or “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” the Kentucky Derby is without a doubt a must-see event—even for non-horse racing fans.

Super Executive Services tailors and executes first-class itineraries for companies wishing to witness this event in style. We are an experienced sports marketing group specializing in catering to companies looking to wow their clients or reward their employees with all-inclusive packages to prestigious sporting events. From arrival to departure, our team of professionals goes above and beyond to provide premier corporate hospitality and entertainment.

Interested in learning more? Here is a brief introduction to the Derby—specifically, here are four reasons why the Kentucky Derby is one of the world’s most prestigious events. 

The History

From elaborate hats to mint juleps to marching bands, the Derby is an event rich with traditions. The race first took place in 1875 when Meriwether Lewis Clark—the grandson of the famed William Clark from the Lewis and Clark expedition—formally organized the Louisville Jockey Club to hold the first Kentucky Derby. The event drew 10,000 spectators. Now, over 170,000 attend the annual race and roughly 16 million watch from home, as another horse and jockey are garlanded with a blanket of 554 roses and immortalized in horse racing history.

The Money

With the option to buy $1,000 mint juleps—don’t worry the proceeds go to charity—and $15,000 Mansion seats, it’s hard to not feel like you are among the elite. This feeling is further heightened by the hundreds of celebrities in attendance, many of whom fly in on private jets.

The Atmosphere

With a label like “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” you may think that all the Derby’s excitement is short-lived. However, this is far from the truth. The Kentucky Derby is actually a two-day event, and the days leading up to the race can be as equally as fun as the race itself. In addition to Oaks Day Friday, there is a plethora of other festivities rich with traditions and drinks—after all, Louisville is in the heart of Bourbon Country. The result of all of this is an atmosphere unlike anything else.

The Stakes

What would a horse race be if you could not bet on the horses? We do not know and do not really want to find out. The betting is a big part of the reason why the Kentucky Derby feels so prestigious and why it is so intriguing—the high stakes infuse the air with an almost palpable energy. In 2016, for example, $138 million was bet legally at the tracks and at outside betting outlets. With this much at stake, it’s hard to not feel like you are a part of something prestigious.

Ready to make your clients’ heads spin with a trip to the Kentucky Derby? Contact Superior Executive Services for package details, pricing, and unparalleled corporate event planning.