How we reinvented the District 5 candidate forum with a late-night talk show–inspired format that encouraged real conversation, authenticity, and community engagement.

Transforming national event staffing workflows with a fully custom Airtable ecosystem and a purpose-built interface

A behind-the-scenes look at how the Charity Polo Classic was built from the ground up—blending philanthropy, community, and high-level event production to create a Tampa Bay signature event.

Derby at the Pier 2025 was more than a Derby-themed celebration—it was a full-scale showcase of hospitality, community impact, and premium brand experiences. This year, Woodford Reserve and Brown-Forman delivered one of the most memorable activations on site, transforming the exclusive Jockey Club into an immersive tasting and VIP lounge that set the tone for the entire event. A Derby Day on the Waterfront Hosted at Spa Beach Park on the St. Pete Pier, the event drew more than 2,400 guests, including over 1,000 attendees inside the Jockey Club , seven VIP tables, and seven Millionaire Row cabanas. With sweeping waterfront views and an upscale Derby atmosphere, Derby at the Pier once again delivered as one of Tampa Bay’s standout spring events. Beyond the celebration, the event also made a significant impact— $75,000 was donated to three local nonprofits: The Children’s Dream Fund, CASA, and Academy Prep. Inside the Woodford Reserve Jockey Club Experience The Woodford Reserve Jockey Club was the centerpiece of Brown-Forman’s sponsorship. Designed as a luxurious, all-inclusive lounge, the activation allowed guests to deeply engage with the brand through: Elevated craft cocktails and premium sampling Interactive tasting moments Signature Woodford Reserve bar design and custom menus A buzzworthy "step and repeat" photo moment On-site education led by a professional Brand Ambassador The environment blended elegance and excitement—giving guests a stylish, comfortable space to enjoy Derby Day traditions while immersing themselves fully in the world of Woodford Reserve. A Spotlight in Local Media The Jockey Club’s energy and the event’s overall draw captured the attention of local press and regional media outlets. Coverage included: I Love the Burg highlighting the must-attend nature of the Derby celebration WUSF featuring the event and its charitable impact FOX 13 News showcasing the Derby experience live on air A full digital photo gallery capturing the style, atmosphere, and community participation This coverage amplified the event’s reach and reinforced Derby at the Pier as a signature, highly attended spring tradition. Why the Sponsorship Stood Out Brown-Forman’s presence didn’t just complement the event—it elevated it. The activation aligned perfectly with the Derby’s sophisticated aesthetic, offering guests a memorable brand experience that felt authentic, premium, and integrated. The Woodford Reserve tasting moments became a natural gathering point for guests, driving engagement while reinforcing brand loyalty. The execution demonstrated how experiential strategy, design, and hospitality can come together to create something meaningful and memorable. Looking Ahead With its continued growth, strong community impact, and premium brand partnerships, Derby at the Pier is shaping up to be one of the region’s most anticipated annual events. The 2025 activation set a new bar for sponsor engagement—showing what’s possible when brands invest in immersive storytelling and elevated guest experiences. Brown-Forman’s presence didn’t simply contribute to the event. It helped define it.

How in-store education and strategic sampling drove trial, conversion, and deeper consumer understanding across Florida ABC locations.