Sandra O’Loughlin

The high cost of travel has caused some consumers to stay close to home this year. So resourceful home-furnishings brands rolled out programs that took everything—including the kitchen sink (well almost!)—to them reaching commuters in Washington and festivalgoers from Newport RI to the San Mateo County Fair.

When Self magazine took its workouts to the parks this spring it was the 16th year that savvy health-conscious women lined up around the block for a day of bending and stretching beauty treatments and product samples in Chicago New York and San Diego. And in April when Walgreens revved up the engines for its mobile wellness tour it was the fifth year it provided free health screenings to those in need across the land. Though both programs vary in scope and purpose over time each has developed a brand equity and consistent message that has connected with thousands of people annually.

Imagine walking down the street and hearing that your hair looks good or that your jacket is cool. No we’re not talking about those irritating wolf whistles that guys have foisted on the fairer sex since the dawn of time. We’re talking about expressions of cheer and goodwill spread by two Purdue University students Cameron Brown and Brett Westcott who on Wednesdays since 2008 have been standing outside the chemistry building on the West Lafayette IN campus with a “Free Compliments” sign and singing the praises of passersby.

Since the economic downturn internal events of all stripes are still under fire. From the lavish incentive programs held at posh resorts to the company picnic shareholders and cfos are questioning every expense. Yet despite this shift smart corporations realize business isn’t all about the money. They know profits result from employees who work hard function as a team and understand the meaning of their toil. To that end many are switching up their experiences now hosting more philanthropic team-building events that benefit others and give their corporate persona a boost too.

Inflatable structures are more than a lot of hot air. At fairs festivals even on the trade show floor these gigantic colorful creations can help sponsors advertisers and exhibitors stand out from the crowd. State Farm places inflatable billboards on golf course lakes at its LPGA-sponsored events (BBI Inflatable Display Systems handles). Nokia Studio a mobile entertainment experience last summer traveled to music festivals with a cube-shaped structure made out of an inflatable wall system and shipping containers (Landmark Creations handles).