Austin, Texas-based Red Velvet Events Inc. planned this private New Year’s Eve bash last year, which featured a vodka luge, a personal chef, a hip hop dancing contest and champagne bottles customized with wax crests bearing the host’s name. This year, the economy hasn’t reduced business, but it has reduced budgets, says Julia Mercado, who managed the event. Spectacular events are “still doable,” she explains. “We just have to be more creative!”

Photo by Scott Stanfield.

Event Manager: Julia Mercado, Red Velvet Events
Rental Items: Marquee Rents
Linens: BBJ Linen
Ice Sculptures: Doug Christie, Amazing Ice Designs
Personalized Champagne Bottles: PersonalWine.com
Sushi Chef: Kenobi Restaurant and Sushi Bar
Personal Chef: Chef Marco Ellinger