Resources

Show Ready Moments

All In: The Heartbeat of AV Chicago

At AV Chicago, being all in isn’t just a phrase—it’s our way of life. From creativity to collaboration, our team thrives on making the impossible possible for every live event. See how passion, innovation, and teamwork fuel every flawless show we deliver.

How to Choose the Right Audio System for Your Event

Great sound makes a great event. Jesse from AV Chicago shares expert tips on selecting the perfect audio system — from microphones to monitors — to ensure your audience hears (and feels) every word with clarity and precision.

How to Design Better Presentation Slides

Your slides should enhance your story, not distract from it. Rob shares pro tips from AV Chicago on creating simple, clear, and visually engaging presentations that connect with your audience.

The Return of In-Person Events

The event world is shifting back to face-to-face experiences, and AV Chicago is helping lead the way. Keith explores why in-person connection still reigns supreme and how innovation is redefining live events.

Lighting Design That Shines: Setting the Stage for Success

Lighting does more than brighten a room — it sets the tone, energizes your audience, and elevates your brand. Jesse from AV Chicago explains how strategic lighting transforms events into unforgettable experiences.

Breakout Rooms That Inspire Connection and Collaboration

Breakout rooms can transform passive audiences into active participants. Amanda from AV Chicago shares practical strategies for designing meaningful breakout sessions that spark creativity, collaboration, and engagement.

LED Walls 101: Transforming Event Design

From ultra-bright displays to curved configurations, LED walls are redefining event staging. Rob from AV Chicago breaks down what to consider from power and safety to installation and design for a flawless LED setup.

AV Chicago Gives Back: Building Community Through Service

We believe every production should have an impact—on and off the stage. Discover how AV Chicago supports local nonprofits and community initiatives, from school supplies and food drives to winter clothing donations. Together, we’re building a brighter, kinder future.

Why Rehearsals Are the Secret to an Impactful Event

Practice makes perfect, especially in live events. Keith from AV Chicago shares why rehearsals are essential for presenters, performers, and production teams to ensure a confident, seamless experience.

Event Contingency Planning: Staying Ready for Anything

Every great event has a backup plan. Learn how AV Chicago prepares for the unexpected — from weather and technical challenges to last-minute changes— so your show runs smoothly no matter what comes your way.

Going All-In for Live Event Excellence

Rob from AV Chicago explains what it means to go all in: embracing challenges, perfecting the craft, and delivering world-class experiences for every audience. It’s not just what we do, it’s who we are.

What It Means to Be “Show Ready”

At AV Chicago, “Show Ready” is more than a slogan. It’s our mindset. Learn how preparation, communication, and teamwork help our crews deliver excellence under pressure, every single time.

IMAG: Bringing Every Audience Member to the Front Row

Discover how image magnification (IMAG) transforms the live event experience. Rob from AV Chicago explains how to capture dynamic, engaging visuals that make every seat feel like the best one in the house.

LED Totems: The Game-Changer for Modern Events

Dynamic, flexible, and eye-catching — LED Totems bring your visuals to life. Learn how AV Chicago uses this versatile technology to create stunning signage, branding, and interactive event moments.

How to Use Video Playback to Elevate Your Event

Video playback is one of the most powerful storytelling tools in live production. Rob from AV Chicago shares tips on lighting, timing, and transitions to keep your audience engaged from start to finish.

How to Build a Solid Event Production Schedule

Timing is everything. From pre-production to show day, AV Chicago walks you through how to create an effective production schedule that keeps your event organized, on time, and stress-free.

Scenic Stage Design

Scenic elements bring stages to life. Learn how modular pieces and smart lighting can add depth and character—without a big budget.

Camera Types for Live Events

Choosing the right camera matters. We break down three common types to help you match the right gear to your event’s needs.

Picking a Venue for Social Events

Planning a fundraiser or celebration? Our Director of Sales & Marketing shares tips on choosing a venue with the right capacity, AV amenities, and atmosphere for a memorable event.

Producing an Experience

Our President & Owner explores how AV can extend beyond the general session with branding and engagement throughout expo halls and common areas for a fully immersive experience.

AV & the Attendee Experience

Your AV provider does more than run gear. Our President & Owner explains how early collaboration with AV helps create powerful, engaging moments for your attendees.

We’re All In

Every successful event is a team effort. Our President & Owner talks about the power of being “all in”—supporting each other, solving challenges, and delivering seamless experiences together.

How to Write an Effective AV RFP

A great AV experience starts with a strong RFP. Our Vice President shares key elements to include to avoid confusion, save time, and get the support you need.

Show Ready Productions

AV Chicago is going national with Show Ready Productions—bringing trusted, top-tier production services to events across the country with the same excellence and team you know.

Event Production with EPN

What does it take to be part of the Event Production Network? Our Vice President shares how EPN members set the gold standard in AV production.

Choosing the Right Venue

Director of Sales & Marketing at AV Chicago® shares 3 key factors—space, AV setup, and location—that can make or break your corporate event.

Where do I look?

Co-President of AV Chicago® highlights the use of your camera and where to look when presenting for this Show Ready Moment.

Show Ready Connect

Co-President of AV Chicago® breaks down how Show Ready Connect gives you reliable internet—anytime, anywhere (yes, even without power!).

Is your event backed up?

Another Show Ready moment.

What the Prompter

Co-President of AV Chicago® highlights the use of teleprompters for this Show Ready Moment.

What’s your plan?

While most events go as planned, it’s best to have a backup plan just in case. Here are some points to consider!

Internet

Here are some tips to make sure Internet is set up to enhance your next event!

Tech table length

Producing hybrid events requires more crew and equipment resulting in more space needed for the tech table.

Breakout Rooms

Breakout rooms are an important part of many events. Make the most of them!

Clothing

Our General Manager, Amanda, provides tips for choosing an effective on-camera outfit.

Hub and Spoke

Have you ever considered a Hub and Spoke set up for your next hybrid event? Watch to find out how it works!

Crew Care

Great events start with a well-cared-for crew. Here are a few tips that can make your crew’s life a little easier.

Virtual Audio

How can you ensure the best audio comes through for your next virtual event? A few tips can help!

On Camera

Set up your camera using our tips to look your best during your next virtual event.

Virtual Lighting

Set yourself up for virtual success with good lighting. It doesn’t have to be complicated!