Hosted at Thompson Hotel, the annual Akin Rodeo Kickoff Holiday Party delivered a refined interpretation of Western luxury through immersive branding, experiential design, and high energy celebration. Designed as a signature corporate event for Akin, this year’s celebration leaned fully into a luxury meets rodeo aesthetic, transforming the venue into a branded environment where music, design, and atmosphere worked together seamlessly.

From the moment guests arrived, branding was intentionally layered throughout the space. A custom entry installation featuring an “Akin Rodeo” statement wall set the tone, accented with neon leather signage and cascading balloon elements. Inside, the brand experience continued across every touchpoint, from branded lemons and limes at the bar to custom napkins, cocktails, and neon signage placed throughout the venue. No matter where guests turned, the Akin name was present, reinforcing the identity and energy of the event without feeling overdone.

The layout encouraged movement and discovery. Barrel high tops were styled throughout the space, each topped with miniature Western boots repurposed as floral vessels. A playful yet elevated nod to rodeo culture, these details brought personality and texture to the cocktail areas. A “Howdy Y’all” balloon wall, complete with Western themed balloon inserts, cowboy hats, and rope detailing, offered a high impact photo moment while maintaining cohesion with the overall design.

Music served as the heartbeat of the evening, culminating in a live performance by the Randy Rogers Band. In honor of the musical focus, the catering display featured two oversized guitar installations resting on a lush bed of florals, visually tying the design to the night’s main performance. These sculptural moments reinforced the connection between sound, setting, and celebration.

The bar area became a focal point of the event, anchored by a six foot tall disco horse installation positioned above and beside the bar. Draped in cascading blooms styled like a floral saddle, the horse served as both a showstopping centerpiece and an interactive photo moment for guests. Additional Western figurines dressed in cowboy and cowgirl attire were placed throughout the cocktail lounge, adding whimsy and visual storytelling to the space.

Florals leaned into a rich, textural fall palette of burgundy, brown, and warm tan tones, intentionally selected to complement the venue’s industrial architecture. Exposed brick, metal finishes, chandeliers, and dramatic ceiling lighting created a moody backdrop that allowed the florals and décor to stand out without competing with the space. Lounge furniture softened the environment, styled in layered ivories, blues, and navy tones to balance warmth with refinement.

The result was a corporate event that felt bold, immersive, and unforgettable. Elevated yet playful, polished yet energetic, this Akin Rodeo Kickoff Party demonstrated how intentional branding and experiential design can transform a corporate celebration into a fully realized atmosphere where guests don’t just attend — they feel the moment.