You would imagine a conference the size of SXSW requires a ton of planning and preparation. You’re correct.
“SXSW is the ultimate collaboration for creative minds and emerging technologies,” said Michele Passaretti, events and marketing assistant for High Beam – the official planning department of SXSW. “There is no better place for brand exposure amongst a variety of consumers from around the world. SXSW brings the people together, right here in Austin, Texas.”
High Beam Events has been SXSW’s preferred event producer since 2005 and has created some of the most unique activations and events in the history of the conference. High Beam plans and produces every event associated with SXSW from start to finish. They work year round preparing for the conference and planning each detail to make SXSW come to life.
“There are so many behind the scene details and planning efforts that go into the conference. We perform a number of tasks like contracting venue rentals, securing sponsorship clients, requesting city permits and biding on stage gear, tents, tech and production equipment. The build-out and activation process begins weeks before opening day. We transform road closures, parking lots and even city parks into even grounds for the festival,” said Passaretti. “It takes an entire team to totally transform Downtown Austin into a place equipped to host a festival of this kind.”
Passaretti shared some advice for those attending SXSW. “Network! Network! Network! SXSW wouldn’t be possible without sponsors, fans and industry folks from across the country – some even travel from the other side of the world. The kinds of people you’ll meet and the opportunities you encounter are endless,” said Passaretti. “SXSW is the largest festival of it’s kind in the world. There is so much to take in, see and do. It’s totally what you make it. Put your phone down. Lose yourself in the chaos. Get out of your comfort zone. Rock your heart out. Take a shot! Wear really comfortable shoes, and sleep when you’re dead.”
Months of hard work and sleepless nights happened in order to perfect this conference, so Passaretti is very excited to see all the hard work their team has done pay off and can’t wait for SXSW to come to life. “I am so excited to watch the madness unfold and witness all of its magic,” said Passaretti. This is her first SXSW behind the scenes and her appreciation for the festival has grown entirely.
I consider myself extremely lucky to have found a company that represents everything I stand for. SXSW is much more than a few bands at a rock and roll concert. We are a birthplace of new ideas and emerging technology; a place for creative thinkers, innovators, pioneers; a place to celebrate the art, talent and exchange; a place for collaboration and world renovation.