R&R Partners: Build the Brand, Protect the Brand

The Phoenix office of R&R Partners took an unusual approach to holiday merry-making this year. Instead of patting ourselves on the back and popping champagne, we took a cue from the broad sentiment that it has been a challenging year for businesses of all types.

We felt the best kind of holiday party is one with purpose – and one that could connect others for a better 2010.

On Dec. 3, the “rCelebration” bash brought 11 industries and 80+ organizations together for a night of networking as well as a very loud “thank you” for sustaining our own business through 2009. R&R hosted about 125 clients, vendors and business friends – with a theme designed around giving thanks and giving back. Together, we recognized that through mutual support, all of us survived an historic year.

R&R recruited local vendors to encourage support of neighboring businesses. They included Su Vino – a Scottsdale-based winery, Cruz Tequila – an award-winning tequila maker started by former ASU fraternity brothers, and Rock Bottom – a local brewery. Honey Moon Sweets provided an amazing cake designed to mimic our event invitation. And the fantastic cook-to-order Italian buffet came from nearby Scottsdale’s FireSky Resort.

Guests contributed canned goods at the door and, together, we made an 800-pound contribution to St. Mary’s Food Bank.  And over conversation (and a few tequila shots) new prospects were made for a robust 2010. Although we still couldn’t help the State Treasurer resolve that nagging $3 billion-dollar deficit.

Special thanks to the R&R Live division, which added incredible flair and polish to an event that, as intended, summoned the rain clouds of commerce in to a parched corner of the Sonoran Desert. We look on to a New Year and wish everyone bright success in 2010.

What are we thankful for in 2009? From great colleagues to great clients to Sprinkles cupcakes around the corner... it's all on the wall.