Each year, Tri-Marq produces a lot of events. Some are large and require semi-trucks full of gear and a small nation of the crew, and some are much smaller, and more manageable, in scale. When it comes to smaller events, the vendor decision often comes down to a choice between in-house Audio/Video (AV) and an outside vendor.
Oftentimes, the event planner feels pressured to choose the in-house AV as a ‘thank you’ to the hotel that is hosting the event. Sometimes, this decision is easy and convenient, but without prior research, it can also end in disaster. Luckily, after years of experience, we know which in-house AV companies are reputable and which may not be, and when it’s appropriate to use in-house versus an outside vendor.
One common misconception is that outside AV companies always compete directly with in-house companies when oftentimes that’s not the case. Every once in a while, a client will comment that they’d love for us to produce their event, but it’s probably too small for us to get involved and their best option may be to use the in-house. The reality is that it’s not an us versus them situation. We contract with national in-house AV suppliers, and we’ll gladly work in conjunction with and supplement an in-house company when it’s appropriate.
We’re more concerned about where our equipment comes from. If the equipment is right for the show in terms of price, quality, and availability, we’ll use it and work together with the in-house AV company to make sure your show is the best it can be.
