Debra Taylor grew up in Anderson but moved away decades ago, building a successful event production company in Indianapolis.
Much of her focus has been on weddings with Sic Parvis Magna Event Producers. But Taylor wanted to try something new — a huge three-day event that would provide something for every facet of the community including businesses, seniors, young families, teens, adults and churchgoers.
“I wanted to come back home and do something great for the community,” she said. “I’m bringing the Summer Smash here giving the community this great event.”
The three-day extravaganza will be July 26 to 28 with most of the event taking place in and around Mounds Mall. There will be an off-site black tie awards ceremony for participating local business owners, community leaders and others where there will be business and community awards given as well as several nonprofit organizations recognized. There will also be a dinner and dance.
Businesses are encouraged to register for the event, as well as for the business expo the following day, to ensure a spot, Taylor said.
The majority of the event will be Saturday, July 27. Inside the mall there will be a business expo with dozens of local and area businesses; a mini health clinic and screening; two fashion shows; and free sessions for things such as dancing, crafts, fitness, domestic violence warning signs, product demonstrations among other things.
Going on all day and night in the south parking lot will be a talent show for all ages and a variety of categories. Throughout the day and evening the judges will narrow it down to one overall winner who will get a VIP package to help jump-start their career including a professional recording session, makeover and website development, Taylor said.
Those interested in the talent show need to register ahead of time with more than 30 registered already.
Three stages will be set up throughout the parking lot and in between the talent competition there will be performances by breakout performers, South Six 5 and Darnell Lark and others.
Throughout the day in the mall’s back parking lot will be a “Family Fun Center” with carnival rides, games, foods, crafts and other activities geared toward Madison County families.
That evening, the south parking lot will be transformed into a night club for a block party from 8 p.m. to midnight, Taylor said. There will be two VIP tents, a disc jockey and drummer on stage with a video wall background with dancing in the parking lot, she said.
Sunday will be the Summer Smash Praise Jam featuring music and speakers from area churches in the south parking lot.
“I’m so excited about bringing an event like this that has never been seen before to Anderson,” Taylor said. “I’m hoping to give a boost to local businesses, nonprofits and the talented people in the area.”
Find Abbey Doyle on Facebook and @heraldbulletin on Twitter, or call 640-4805.
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"I'm so excited about bringing an event like this that has never been seen before to Anderson," Debra Taylor said.
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Simply smashing
Indy promoter to bring Summer Smash to hometown of Anderson
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