Bright recently participated in “One Voice” in Los Angeles and the “Empty Event Rally” in San Diego. The physically-distanced events were part of a national effort hosted by The Live Events Coalition in conjunction with the California Events rallying support for the event industry, which has been critically impacted by COVID-19. 

“Bright is proud to be a supporter and contributor to the Coalition and to these activations. Events and the event industry are a critical part of the fabric of our communities and have an incredibly significant impact on California’s, and the nation’s economy,” Mike Bjornstad, President Bright Event Rentals, said.

The Live Events Coalition, a volunteer-run nonprofit organization formed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic’s devastating impact on the live events industry, has previously held activations in New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Washington, D.C.

“One Voice” took place at Xbox Plaza at LA Live in Los Angeles and greatly resembled an orchestrated event with one major component missing - it was empty. Devoid of people, instead the event displayed an art installation honoring the millions of Americans who make up the industry, many who are now out of work. Sterling Engagements produced the event which showcased the impact of COVID-19 on the live events industry as well as advocated for additional federal support and aid.

The Empty Event Rally, held at Waterfront Park in downtown San Diego, featured 480 empty chairs and tables. The unoccupied seats represented live-event workers whose jobs have been at a standstill because of the pandemic. The tables were set up in front of a stage that, symbolically, was all but empty itself. Taped to the back of each chair were signs with messages such as “1 of 12 Million Unemployed Event Workers” and “We Miss Making Memories With You!” 

Events is one of California’s largest, most economically impactful industries. As one of the first to be shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic and likely one of the last to return, the live events industry, which employs approximately 12 million Americans and contributes nearly $1 Trillion to the U.S. economy, is in dire need of support.

“We’re asking for additional industry specific relief to be provided to companies and employees in the event, hospitality, and tourism space. Our industry is amongst the most impacted by the pandemic and we need economic support to weather the storm. The payback for our employees, our communities, and our overall well-being will be immeasurable!” Bjornstad said. 

Since the inception of the pandemic, Bright, along with many of its competitors and other event professionals, has been innovating and creating new products, services, and protocols for safe events. 

“Bright knows how to execute events that include masks, proper physical distancing, and excellent hand sanitation in both indoor and outdoor settings. It is time for those events that can be executed safely to be allowed to return,” Bjornstad said.

One Voice Los Angeles Creative Team: Design + Production: Sterling Engagements | Venue: LA Live Staples Center AEG Worldwide | Floral + Artistic Installation: Shawna Yamamoto Event Design | Lighting + Installation: Kinetic Lighting | Lighting 2: Wova Events The Lighter Side | Audio: Amber Event Production | Rentals: Bright Event Rentals and Town & Country Event Rentals | Linens: Luxe Linen | Carpet: Event Carpet Pros | Graphic Design + Invite: Prim & Pixie |  Printing + Signage: Creative Graphic Services | DJ: Second Song | Step and Repeat: Step and Repeat LA | Floor Decals: Messex Industries | Photography: Maya Myers Photography | Cinematography: Villa Visuals | Vendor Meals: Haute Chefs LA and City Palate Catering and Contemporary Catering and The Cocktail Concierge | Parking + Security: 24/7 Event Production 

Empty Event Rally San Diego Creative Team: ​Rentals: Bright Event Rentals | Production: McFarlane Promotions | Hosted by: ​San Diego Event Coalition and ​California Events Coalition and ​LIVE Event | Venue: Waterfront Park San Diego