Following your dreams is not always an easy feat in this economy. Luckily, Travis Ishida and Jeff VanVleck have got you covered. Spending their waking hours putting together premiere fashion shows as well as producing events of all shapes and sizes, these two OC movers and shakers are on a mission to help local businesses succeed in the most stylish way possible. Discover VanIsh Marketing & Events.
Alisha Domoslai: How was VanIsh Marketing & Events formed?
Travis Ishida: VanIsh was formed when Jeff VanVleck and I Travis Ishida, came together. Jeff had been doing fly by the hip fashion shows for different clubs. After running into Jeff at a show, I gave some advice about how to make the shows more lucrative. After a couple of meetings we decided to join together to form VanIsh. We have been going strong ever since.
AD: How did you come up with the company name and describe the different aspects of your business.
TI: Van for VanVleck and Ish for Ishida, the first three letters of our last names put together. It just made sense. Our company has several different aspects to it, but we are most known for our fashion shows. When we’re not doing fashion shows we offer a wide variety of options to our clients, i.e. marketing, public relations, talent management, production(s), and special events. It’s great because we are able to offer our clients a single source to take care of all of their marketing needs. All of our divisions also complement one another so it is all very harmonious.
AD: We here at OCAC appreciate entrepreneurs. What made you want to start your own company?
TI: I have worked in corporate America for years. 5 years ago I decided to work as a professional photographer. While being my own boss has its perks I was still missing something. While Jeff, who still works for corporate America wanted something more out of life so together we decided to use our talents to create something of our own. It’s nice to be able to work from remote locations, and deal with new people on a constant basis. After all, who wants to be stuck in a cubical every day?
AD: Many local boutiques and businesses are struggling in this economy. What can VanIsh offer to help stimulate small businesses that will give them more exposure?
TI: Even though the economy is tough right now and we are all feeling it, it is still important to bring your company to the fore front of the entertainment industry. VanIsh offers several different custom marketing campaigns that can be fitted to every client’s budgets. From the starving artist to the thriving company, we enjoy working with everyone and being a part of the success of an individual or company.
AD: What is a specifically unique aspect to the events that you put together that sets you apart from other firms?
TI: VanIsh is unique because we truly go that extra mile to make sure that our clients receive more than what they expect. We pride ourselves on great customer service, and we always think outside of the box.
AD: What was your favorite/most memorable fashion show that you put together? I think so far it has to be our Dainese fashion show. There was a lot of production that went into that event, and it was also our first international client. The VanIsh team did a great job and everything came together flawlessly.
AD: What are the most challenging parts of producing fashion shows?
TI: That’s a tough question; I would have to say all the small details that go into a production. We have a great team so everyone knows their roll and how to execute it professionally.
AD: Any favorite up and coming local designers that we should be looking out for?
TI: VanIsh has always been a big fan Atwater Collection. They are a new, up and coming company that brings a mix of the traditional Orange County surf and skater wear.
AD: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
TI: Our favorite part of our job is knowing that we are able to help people succeed in their dreams and business. It is very gratifying to be able to look back and know that we are a part of their success.
AD: VanIsh puts on events all over Southern California as well as Las Vegas. What does Orange County offer that other cities don’t?
TI: We love Orange County! OC is where Jeff and I are both originally from so we have had the opportunity to grow up with today’s leading OC fashion designers. Orange County has the most beautiful people in the country, great designers, and fashion sense all to our own.
To find out more information about VanIsh Marketing & Events visit www.vanishme.com
Photos courtesy of VanIsh Marketing & Events