Organizing a car show can be an exciting venture, especially when you want to create an engaging atmosphere for car enthusiasts. Gabe Morris from Provisions Coffee shares valuable insights on how to successfully run a car show, drawing from his experiences with the popular Cars and Coffee events. This guide will delve into key strategies, common pitfalls, and ways to foster a positive community through car shows.
What is Cars and Coffee?
Cars and Coffee is a unique event concept that combines car culture with the social aspect of coffee drinking. Gabe started this initiative about a year ago to promote his coffee shop while providing a platform for car enthusiasts to gather. He noticed that many car events lacked a coffee shop element, which inspired him to create a welcoming environment for car lovers to connect over their shared passion.
The Unique Appeal of Cars and Coffee
What sets Provisions Cars and Coffee apart is its focus on quality and detail, both in the coffee served and the cars displayed. The event is not just about showcasing high-end vehicles; it also emphasizes community and inclusivity. Gabe mentions, “We love everything over here,” highlighting the variety of cars present, from JDM to Euro and classic models. This diversity enriches the experience for all attendees.
Understanding the Community Aspect
One of the most significant benefits of hosting these events is the opportunity to bring people together. Gabe emphasizes that cars serve as a conversation starter, creating connections between individuals who may not have met otherwise. “If you know somebody, they’re going to do business with you,” he explains. This networking aspect is invaluable, as it fosters relationships that can extend beyond the car community.
Creating a Welcoming Environment
Gabe points out the importance of ensuring that the event feels safe and welcoming. By hiring off-duty police officers and security, he creates an environment where enthusiasts can enjoy themselves without fear of the event being shut down. This proactive approach helps mitigate risks associated with car shows, which often face criticism due to reckless behavior.
Night Events: A Growing Trend
The success of the morning Cars and Coffee events led to the introduction of nighttime gatherings, which have proven to be incredibly popular. Gabe notes that the turnout for nighttime events has doubled, with overall attendance quadrupling. This surge in interest can be attributed to the lack of nighttime car events in the area, allowing Provisions to fill a niche that many enthusiasts were craving.
Collaboration with Creatives
Collaboration is key to the success of these events. Gabe often hires photographers and videographers to capture the essence of Cars and Coffee, showcasing the event to those who could not attend. He believes in working with a variety of creatives to bring different perspectives and styles to the content produced. This not only supports the local creative community but also enhances the visibility of the event.
Addressing Misconceptions
Despite the stereotypical view of car enthusiasts, Gabe asserts that most people in the community are friendly and approachable. He encourages attendees to engage with car owners genuinely, rather than treating them like celebrities. “99.9% of people out here… are really nice,” he reassures. This openness can help break down barriers and foster a more inclusive atmosphere.
Tips for Photographers and Filmmakers
For photographers and filmmakers looking to stand out at car shows, Gabe offers several tips. First, they should listen to their clients to understand their vision and expectations. Keeping the initial moments of videos short and engaging is crucial, as viewer retention drops significantly after the first few seconds. He advises developing a consistent editing style to help photographers build a recognizable brand.
Lessons Learned from Organizing Events
Gabe shares some hard-earned lessons from organizing car shows. He emphasizes the necessity of having police presence at events to maintain order and safety. Additionally, he advises against having multiple entry and exit points, as this can complicate monitoring and security. Educating attendees about respectful behavior is essential, as many issues stem from a lack of understanding.
About Provisions Coffee
Provisions Coffee is not just about great coffee; it’s also about creating a community hub for car enthusiasts. With two locations in Florida and a third on the way, the focus on in-house food preparation sets them apart. Gabe proudly states that everything, from pastries to breakfast items, is made from scratch, ensuring quality and freshness. The car events have become an integral part of their brand, making every visit an opportunity to experience the local car culture.
Conclusion
Gabe Morris’s journey with Provisions Coffee and the Cars and Coffee events highlights the importance of community, quality, and creativity in organizing successful car shows. By fostering an environment where enthusiasts can connect and share their passion, he has created a thriving culture that benefits both attendees and the local business. Whether you’re looking to organize your own car show or just want to enjoy the experience, these insights provide a solid foundation for success.
