Choosing the Perfect Vendors for Your Spring Event at Sparks museum and event center in provo, Utah

Spring is a magical time to host an event at Sparks Museum and Event Center! With the trees filled with leaves, warmer weather, and longer daylight hours, spring events are all about having a great party. However, selecting the right vendors is crucial to bringing your vision to life. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best vendors for a seamless and unforgettable event.

1. Caterers: Fresh, Seasonal, and Crowd-Pleasing

Food is one of the highlights of any event, and spring is the perfect time to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into your menu. When selecting a caterer:

• Look for licensed and insured vendors who can meet our venue requirements.

• Opt for light, refreshing, and seasonal dishes like garden-fresh salads, fruit platters, and grilled proteins. Magelby’s catering is a great choice when looking for fresh.

• If alcohol will be served, ensure your caterer is familiar with our no outside alcohol policy and works with a bartender from our preferred vendor list. Sparks works with many options some of these are local in Utah County such as Cheers and Swizzels

• Request tasting sessions to ensure their menu fits your event theme. Try out Browns Brothers Catering.

garden deliciousness

2. Floral & Décor: Enhancing the Spring Aesthetic

Spring provides a naturally beautiful setting, and the right florist can enhance your event’s aesthetic with:

• Seasonal flowers like tulips, peonies, and hydrangeas that thrive in spring weather.

• Soft, natural color palettes that match the freshness of the season.

• Sustainable and local florists who can provide eco-friendly décor solutions.

• Compliance with our no open flames, confetti, or loose glitter policies to ensure easy cleanup.

Splash of spring

3. Music & Entertainment: Setting the Mood

Whether you’re hosting a wedding, corporate gathering, or special celebration, music plays a major role in setting the tone. When hiring a DJ or live band:

• Choose a vendor that you trust and has good reviews to avoid last-minute complications.

• Ensure they understand our music end-time policy, as all music must end before the cleanup begins.

• For a more intimate ambiance, consider acoustic musicians or string quartets, perfect for a spring event.

4. Photography & Videography: Capturing the Moment

Your spring event will be filled with picturesque moments that deserve to be captured professionally. When selecting a photographer or videographer:

• Make sure they have experience with natural light photography, as spring daylight offers great opportunities for outdoor shots.

• Choose a vendor who is comfortable working with our event center’s unique backdrop and lighting setup such as Visual Storytelling.

• Check if they allow the venue to use selected event photos for marketing purposes, unless you opt out in writing.

• Ensure they comply with venue policies, such as no boudoir or nude photography.

5. Bar Service: Licensed & Responsible

If alcohol is part of your celebration, selecting a qualified bar service is essential. At Sparks Museum and Event Center:

shaken not stirred

• Bar services must be selected from our preferred vendor list, ensuring they have proper liquor liability insurance.

• No outside alcohol is allowed, and all alcohol must be served from behind the bar.

• All bartenders must follow our no shots and no underage drinking policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

• Some of our preferred vendors are DRNK ,COPA , and Cheers and Swizzels.

6. Event Planners & Coordinators: Stress-Free Planning

A great event planner or coordinator can make a world of difference in keeping everything on track.

• Choose a seasoned professional with experience in organizing spring events such as Kenzie Events.

• Ensure they are familiar with our venue’s policies, including vendor access times and cleanup responsibilities.

• Opt for someone who can coordinate vendor setup and breakdown while keeping your timeline on schedule.

Final Tips for a Seamless Event

• Book vendors early – Spring is a popular season, and top vendors fill their schedules quickly.

• Communicate clearly – Ensure all vendors understand Sparks Museum and Event Center’s rules on setup, cleanup, and prohibited items.

• Check for insurance – Every vendor should provide proof of insurance to protect your event from liability issues.

• Enjoy the day! – Once your vendors are in place, relax and enjoy your beautiful spring event.

Thank you for stopping by our blog! We hope that you will consider hiring a locally owned wedding venue for your big celebration. Locally owned wedding venues provide the best wedding experience, they tend to have little to no turnover, they support the local economy and they are part of the community. Choosing a locally owned wedding venue means the world to our small owned wedding venues. In an effort to support locally owned wedding venues, we will feature five small business wedding venues in each of our blogs. 

Cornerstone Ranch Events Center, SpringHaus Farm, Adler Ranch,Cakes ROCK, The Venue @ 112,Vista West Ranch

How to create a corporate event to remember in Utah county

Creating a corporate event that employees will remember requires thoughtful planning and engagement. Here are five effective ways to make your event memorable:

1. Personalized Experiences

Tailoring the event to cater to your employees' interests and preferences can significantly enhance their experience.

• Customized Activities: Use feedback from employees to plan activities that align with their hobbies or interests, such as workshops, team-building exercises, or creative stations.

• Personalized Swag: Provide branded gifts or swag that reflect individual employee interests, making them feel valued and recognized.

2. Engaging Content and Speakers

Incorporating inspiring speakers or engaging content can leave a lasting impact:

• Expert Speakers: Invite industry leaders or motivational speakers to share insights and stories that resonate with the attendees.

• Interactive Sessions: Host panels or Q&A sessions that encourage participation, fostering a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

3. Unique Venue Choice

Choosing an unconventional or visually appealing venue can enhance the overall experience: Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Utah is a corporate event venue that will stand out above the rest.

• Non-Traditional Locations: Look for unique venues that align with your corporate culture, such as art galleries, retro spaces,or rooftop spaces that provide stunning views.

• Themed Decor: Decorate the venue in line with the event’s theme, enhancing the ambiance and creating picturesque photo opportunities. Sparks Museum has so many photos opportunities without your having to create them.

4. Memorable Entertainment

Incorporating entertaining elements can energize the atmosphere and engage employees:

• Live Performances: Consider hiring bands, DJs, or performers that fit the tone of the event. Live music can elevate the vibe and encourage employees to socialize.

• Interactive Activities: Organize fun activities like photo booths, games, a drum bus or contests that encourage employees to interact and create lasting memories.

5. Networking Opportunities

Fostering connections among employees can make the event more impactful:

• Structured Networking: Designate time for structured networking sessions, such as speed networking or breakout discussions, to facilitate connections across teams and levels.

• Social Media Engagement: Encourage attendees to share their experiences via social media, creating a digital memory of the event and allowing employees to connect online.

When you are looking for personalized experiences, engaging content, unique venues in provo, utah and want memorable entertainment, and networking opportunities. you can create a corporate event that employees will cherish. Such events not only boost morale but also strengthen company culture and camaraderie.

choosing the perfect wedding dress

Wedding dress shopping is an exciting yet potentially stressful experience. Here are some ideas to help you make your decision while trying to make the experience more joyful and less stressful.

FIRST THING….Set a Budget: Decide how much you can spend on your dress. This will help narrow down your options and avoid overspending.

1. Start Early: Begin your search several months ahead of your wedding date. This allows time for fittings, alterations, and potential delays which tend to take longer than you think.

2. Research Styles: Look through bridal magazines, websites, and social media for inspiration. Create a mood board or collection of styles you love.

3. Know Your Body Type: Understand what styles flatter your shape. When trying on dresses look for one that fits your body type best.

4. Consider the Venue and Theme: Your dress should complement the setting and overall theme of your wedding Sparks Museum and Event Center is a retro space and choosing a retro or vintage dress fits the theme perfectly.

5. Choose Comfort: Make sure you feel comfortable moving in the dress. Consider fabrics, weight, and fit—remember you'll be wearing it for many hours!

6. Less is more: Too many opinions can be overwhelming. Bring along a few trusted friends or family members who understand your style.

7. Try On Different Styles: Be open to trying styles you didn't think you'd like. You might be surprised by what looks great on you. Prichett Bridal in Orem,Ut is a great choice when trying on wedding dresses.

8. Don’t decide day one; If you start feeling overwhelmed, take a break. Step away, enjoy a meal, or go for a walk to clear your mind.

9. Trust Your Instincts: If you feel amazing in a dress, that's what matters most. Don’t overanalyze; trust how you feel.

and if you get stressed:

• Deep Breathing: Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, to help keep calm.

• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Remember to drink water and eat healthy snacks to keep your energy up or throw in some milk duds sugar is always helpful in stress:)

• Talk About It: Share your feelings with someone. Sometimes just talking it out can reduce stress and provide clarity.

• Visualize the Day: Imagine how beautiful you will feel walking down the aisle in dress; this can create excitement rather than anxiety.

• Keep Perspective: Remember that this is just one part of your wedding day. Focus on the love and commitment that it symbolizes.

5 things to make your party unforgettable

When hosting a party for that loved one, significant other, friend, or co worker here are a list of 5 things to make it unforgettable.

1. Choose the right venue. Venues make all the difference and can make your night simpler or harder depending on what they offer you. Sparks Museum and Event Center is an example of a space that makes your night seamless as you do not have to decorate a things. Choosing a venue that has it all done takes the stress out of “what to do for the wow effect”.

2. Choose a venue that has the tables and chairs and will set them up for you such as Sparks Museum and Event Center. Having a space that you just tell how you want your set up and you show up with it all done saves you both time and money leaving you time to spend on other things.

3. Choose a venue that has an AV system such as Sparks Museum and Event Center. If they have this in place you can simple tie into the bluetooth and play your favorite chanel.

4. Choose a venue that has enough parking. No one wants to arrive and not have a place to park. Sparks Museum and Event Center has plenty.This may seem like a small detail but its the first thing you do when you arrive to the party and people remember if there is no place to park.

5. Choose a venue with plenty of bathrooms. Waiting in line for a bathroom is annoying and doesn't go over well after a period of time. Make sure your venue has enough bathrooms that you won’t see a line creeping up and worry about . Sparks Museum and Event Center has 13 to choose from.

These are just 5 ways you can make your party unforgettable. With these in place now you can focus on food, and fun and making it all about the person you threw it for!

Finding the Perfect Studio to Photograph Your Car: A Vintage Retro Dream

If you're an automobile enthusiast or a car owner looking to capture the essence of your vehicle through photography, finding the right studio is crucial. An ideal setting can bring out the best in your car, showcasing its lines, colors, and details in the most appealing way. For those who adore a vintage retro aesthetic such as Sparks Museum and Event Center, a studio that embodies this vibe can elevate your car's photos to new heights. Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect vintage-style studio for your automotive shoots.

1. Understand Your Vision

Before you start your search, spend some time envisioning what you want from your car photos. Do you want moody, atmospheric shots, or bright and fun images? Understanding your vision will help you narrow down what type of studio you will choose.

When searching for a photography studio, prioritize those with a vintage retro theme. Look for studios that feature classic props, retro backdrops, and unique furnishings that can complement your vehicle's character. Whether it's a mid-century diner, old-school gas station, or a rustic garage, these settings can add a charming layer to your car’s imagery.

Features to Consider:

• Backgrounds: Check if the studio has varied backgrounds that resonate with the vintage theme. Wallpaper patterns, checkered floors, and aged wood or brick can all contribute to the retro feel.

• Lighting: Ensure the studio has excellent lighting options. Natural light in combination with vintage-inspired fixtures can create the perfect ambiance for your photos.

• Space: Consider a studio that can accommodate multiple vehicles. This allows for creative compositions, such as grouping cars by era or style.

3. Time of Year: Photographic Flexibility

One of the significant advantages of an indoor photography studio is the ability to shoot regardless of the weather or season. This flexibility is essential for car photography, allowing you to avoid concerns about rain, snow, or harsh sunlight.

By choosing a studio that you can access anytime, you can schedule your shoots at your convenience. Consider the seasons and how they might affect your desired aesthetics: the warm tones of fall or the stark contrasts of winter can bring different moods to your photographs, even in an indoor setting.

4. Staffing and Equipment

In addition to the studio space, consider the experience of the staff available. A skilled photographer who understands automotive photography can make a significant difference in the quality of your photos. They can provide guidance on angles, lighting adjustments, and styling, ensuring your vehicle looks its best.

Additionally, check what equipment is available in the studio. High-quality cameras, lighting equipment, and props can enhance your shoot’s potential.

5. Scheduling a Tour

Once you've narrowed down your options, schedule a visit to your top choices. Touring the studio allows you to visualize how your vehicle will fit in the space. The studio should want to show you what they have to offer and make it a priority to show you what other cars have been photographed. .

All in all finding the perfect studio to photograph your car can be an exciting and rewarding process. A vintage retro setting with space for multiple cars will allow you to bring your automotive vision to life, regardless of the season. Take your time in researching studios, understanding your needs, and collaborating with photographers who share your passion. With the right environment and expertise, you can create stunning images that show off the beauty of your vehicle for years to come.

Hosting a Corporate Event in a Retro Venue: A Perfect Blend of Style and Functionality

When it comes to planning a corporate event, one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right venue. If you’re looking for a locale that combines character, charm, and convenience, a retro venue might be just what you need. Here’s why a retro venue , such as Sparks Museum and Event Center is an excellent choice and what to consider when planning your event.

The Appeal of Retro Venues

Retro venues offer a unique backdrop that can spark creativity and still have a relaxed atmosphere. Their distinct decor—think vintage furniture, and nostalgic artifacts—can enhance the event experience, providing guests with a memorable setting. This can be particularly effective for corporate gatherings aiming to inspire innovation or team bonding.

1. Visual Impact: A retro venue stands out, making it a conversation starter. Guests can enjoy the ambiance while appreciating the thoughtful decor, which can reflect the company’s personality or mission.

2. Engagement and Connectivity: Nostalgia can evoke memories and emotions, helping break the ice among attendees. This is particularly useful for events focused on networking and collaboration.

3. Unique Experience: A retro venue sets your event apart from the usual corporate settings, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.

Key Considerations When Selecting a Retro Venue

While the charm of a retro venue is undeniable, ensuring it meets the operational needs of your event is equally important. Here are some essential factors to consider:

1. Decorated and Ready: Ensure the venue is already beautifully decorated in a retro style. This reduces the need for extensive decorations and helps you stay within budget while maintaining an impressive aesthetic.

2. Capacity and Layout: Confirm that the venue can comfortably accommodate your number of guests. A good layout will facilitate networking and interaction, so look at the size and if it can house what you are looking for.

3. Adequate Facilities: A crucial element that is often overlooked is the availability of bathrooms. Ensure that the venue has a sufficient number of clean, accessible bathrooms; this is essential for guest comfort. Having easily accessible facilities helps prevent long waits and allows guests to focus on the event without any inconvenience.

4. Location: Choose a venue that is easily accessible for your guests. Consider proximity to public transport, parking availability, and any nearby accommodations for out-of-town attendees.

5. Catering Options: Check whether the venue has in-house catering or allows outside vendors. Depending on your event, catering can range from simple snacks to full meals, and choosing a venue with catering flexibility can save you time and stress.

6. Technical Capabilities: Assess the venue’s audio-visual capabilities. Ensure it can support your presentations, videos, or any interactive elements you plan to include in the event.

Creating an Engaging Atmosphere

Once you’ve selected the perfect retro venue, focus on enhancing the atmosphere:

• Themed Music: Curate a playlist that complements the retro vibe and creates an engaging atmosphere.

• Photo Ops: Set up a photo booth or designated areas with retro props to encourage guests to take pictures.

• Interactive Elements: Consider adding games or activities related to the retro theme, which can foster engagement among attendees.

Hosting a corporate event in a retro venue such as Sparks Museum and Event Center can offer a delightful departure from the ordinary and still meet all your practical needs. By considering the operational aspects such as bathroom facilities, capacity, and catering, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your guests. With a unique setting and thoughtful planning, your corporate event will certainly be one to remember!

Locating the perfect photographer for your wedding or event

When planning a wedding or significant event, one of the most vital things to consider is the photographer. Capturing the essence of your day through beautiful images provides lasting memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect photographer for your special occasion.

Define Your Style

Before you start searching for a photographer, it’s important to decide what is the style of photography you envision for your event. Do you prefer traditional posed shots, candid moments, or a photojournalistic approach? Look through wedding and event photography websites, social media platforms, and blogs for inspiration.

Set a Budget

Photography prices can vary significantly based on experience, location, and packages offered. Once you have a budget in mind, you can narrow down your options. Don’t for get to ask what is included in the package—some photographers offer engagement shoots, albums, and prints in addition to digital images. Decide what is most important to you, without breaking the bank.

Research and Referrals

Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your event planner. Personal referrals can give you insight into a photographer's work ethic and professionalism. Online reviews and portfolios can also help gauge the quality of their work. Websites like Instagram and WeddingWire among others are a great place to see photos as well as reviews.

Review Portfolios

Once you have a list of your favorite photographers, review their portfolios thoroughly. Pay attention to their use of lighting, composition, and editing style. Do their photos evoke emotions and tell a story? If possible, ask to see samples from weddings or events similar to yours.

Meet the Photographer

Schedule a meeting with your top picks. This is your opportunity to see their personality and professionalism. A good photographer should be approachable, attentive, and open to your ideas and preferences. You want to feel comfortable with them not at all intimidated. Tell them your vision, the timeline for the day, and any specific moments or details you want captured. This conversation can help you determine whether you’re on the same page.

Ask the Right Questions

During your meeting, ask important questions to gain clarity about the photographer’s services. Consider inquiring about:

• Their experience with your type of event.

• How many hours are included in the package.

• The number of photographers that will be present.

• Their backup plan for unforeseen circumstances (e.g., illness or equipment failure).

• Delivery timeline for edited photos and albums.

knowing these will help confirm that you're making an informed decision.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, choose a photographer whose work you love and who you feel comfortable with. Good chemistry between you and your photographer can make all the difference. If you feel confident and at ease, it will reflect in your photos.

Conclusion

Sparks Museum and Event Center has had many different photograhers for different events.Finding the right photographer to document your wedding or event may take time, but the memories captured through their lens will be invaluable. With careful consideration, research, and a bit of intuition, you can select a professional who not only meets your aesthetic needs but also becomes an integral part of your celebration.

Local Photographer shout out that have done an amazing job at Sparks Museum and Event Center

Visual Story Telling

Jen Anderson Photography

how to choose the Perfect venue for your quinceanera: a perfect guide

A quinceañera is more than just a celebration; it’s a milestone event that honors a young girl’s transition into womanhood. This special occasion is often filled with family, friends, and meaningful traditions. Choosing the right venue is crucial in creating an unforgettable experience that reflects your vision and accommodates your guests. Some things you should consider when selecting a venue for your quinceañera.

1. Guest Capacity

One of the first things to consider is the number of guests. Quinceañeras typically range from a small intimate gatherings all the way to a large celebrations. Before hand make a list of everyone you’d like to invite, including family, friends, and any special guests. Make sure that the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of guests, with enough space for mingling, dining, and dancing.

2. Alcohol Laws

If you plan to serve alcohol at your quinceañera, familiarize yourself with local alcohol laws. Some venues may have restrictions or may require you to obtain a special permit. Additionally, consider whether you want to hire a bartender or if the venue has an alcohol service included. It’s also important o ensure that all guests are of legal drinking age and that there are safe transportation options available for those who may indulge.

3. Facilities: Bathrooms, Tables, and Chairs

Check the availability and cleanliness of restrooms in the venue. This is an often-overlooked aspect that can significantly affect your guests’ comfort. More bathrooms means less lines and more time to celebrate.

Additionally, determine if the venue provides tables and chairs. Some venues offer these as part of their package, while others may require you to rent or bring your own. Consider the layout of the tables to facilitate the best use of your space to eat and mingle as well as leaving plenty of space for the dance floor. You also want to consider if the venue supplies the linens.

4. Audio-Visual System

A great AV system is vital. Whether you’re hiring a DJ, a live band, or plan to use a microphone for speeches, ensure the venue provides the necessary sound system. Ask about the technical capabilities of the venue and do a soundcheck prior to your event to avoid any last-minute issues.

5. Ample Parking

Convenient parking can be a significant advantage for your guests. Ensure the venue has a sizable parking lot or is located near public transportation options. If parking is limited, consider arrangements for nearby parking or shuttle services to make it easy for everyone to attend.

6. Decor and Ambiance

The venue's decor and overall ambiance can set the tone for your celebration. Consider whether the venue matches your desired theme and color scheme. Some venues may offer packages that include decorations, while others may allow you to bring your own. Think about how you can personalize the space to make it uniquely yours while staying within budget.

7. Cost Considerations

When searching for the ideal venue, keep your budget in mind. Venue costs can vary widely based on location, capacity, and amenities. Consider what’s included in the rental fee—some venues may offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from catering to decor, while others may charge separately for each component.

Why Choosing the Right Venue is Important

A quinceañera is a celebration of culture, family, and personal growth, making the venue an important part of this special occasion. The right venue will not only accommodate your needs and preferences but also enhance the overall experience for you and your guests. Carefully selecting a venue helps create lasting memories and will ensure that your celebration reflects your unique personality and style.

With all of that in mind, we at Sparks Musuem and Event Center will take the time to consider all aspects of a of what you need to plan a seamless and joyous quinceañera celebration. From guest capacity to ambiance, every detail matters. By choosing a venue thoughtfully, you set the stage for an unforgettable experience that honors this significant moment in a young girl’s life. These are some of the things to consider when choosing your venue for your Quinceanera. Happy planning!

QUinceaneras for the win in utah county

Our space will leave your friends and family talking about your quinceanera for years. With all of the vintage vibe filled with colors and lights all you have to do is show up and bring your friends. We take care of tables, chairs, decor (with the museum) and more. Sparks Musueum and Event Center is the place to have you quinceanera , its different than any other event space in Provo or Utah County, we offer an sound system so you can party all night, a speaker so you can share the experience and all can hear.

Have you ever experienced a drum bus? OUr Utah venue has…

Drum Bus team building activity at the Stratus HR employee of the month event.

Our Venue was ecstatic when Stratus Hr rented our space and had Drumbus.com come for their event. It was amazing to listen to the guests participate. It wasn’t long before the guests were drumming together, laughing and team building. Sparks was a perfect place for both a dinner as well as an activity of this kind.

The 1957 Nash metropolitan

Sparky’s father bought a brand new Nash Metropolitan for his wife in 1957. Making this a memorable car . When he saw this car he could not pass it up and had the vision of putting in up on a sign pole. He got it from a friend in Woodscross, Utah who has a huge collection of antique cars. We actually have two of these. The second one came from New Jersey and we had it shipped here to Utah. Neither are on poles at this point but someday they may be…

the sparks sign

This sign was made in 1965 to go on a 48 unit apartment building in Provo that Sparky and his father built. This sign was on there along with the name Roman Gardens. When the building was sold they kept the Sparks sign and hung it in the garage. We, of course had to add the sign (since it is our name) to the collection.

Western Auto

This sign also came from Gary Phillips who got it from an auction. This is the first company that started a franchise. They sold auto parts and sold them to others to sell. They were the supplier and years ahead of there time in the franchise idea. This also came from Indianola, Iowa.

the “fluted” gas pump

Every collector knows the Holy Grail of gas pumps is the Roman Column Pump. Sparky looked for a Roman column for years and never was able to find one he could afford. They sell for $20-$60k at auctions. One day a manager at the Lakeside Storage called to tell Sparky that a guy stopped by and the office and left a note asking if we would be interested in a “fluted” gas pump that he had.

Sparky knew exactly what “fluted” meant and immediately called the guy. He was from Nevada but was living in Springville and when he was a kid worked at the Stateline Service Station where they had the “fluted” gas pump for pumping Kerosene. The mans father had worked at the station and he assumed his dad had actually pumped his gas from the pump so he bought the pump from the sation ages before to restore it as a family memory. Later he found out that his dad actually had never pumped gas from it so he was ready to sell.

Sparky bought it at a fair price and hauled it home to paint and assemble parts. It lacked the glass cylinder which he replaced and restored it for our collection. The hose that is on it was a new old stock original hose he got from Max Egertson who used to own the Texaco Bulk Plant in Provo and he had a few hoses he gave Sparky that he had many years ago. The pump was sold to the Stateline Serviece Station and maintained by a SLC gas pump company.

Frontier, another “cool” Brand.

Frontier is another very cool brand. It began when the two partners in Colorados Bay Oil company couldn’t get along and divided assets. One went to a refinery in Cody Wyoming and started Frontier Oil in 1940. Their first contract was making 100 octane fuel for aircraft in the war. Sparks Museum and Event Center has one of the first signs for gas advertising they sold. It the 5 foot “Golden Cowboy” Frontier sign and is a sign Sparky restored by hand and is one of seven known to exist. Finding that sign is a super “Picker” story! He found it while sitting in Hawaii surprisingly. He son Tim was in Nebraska hunting geese so of course Sparky took the opportunity to hunt for a sign. He looked up the antique dealers in the area and began calling. No luck however, all bad news. In desperation he asked if they even knew anyone who had an old gas pump or sign. ONe of the girls said yes she did and gave Sparky the number. Amazingly the man had a Calso sign and agreed to sell it. Tim was able to meet up with the new contact, yippee. Tim took a short video of the Calso sing plus many others including the two big Frontier signs. I negotiated and was able to get the deal. Finding a way to get Tim the cash was another story but after jumping through hoops and being creative we got them. Sparky picked them up during a different trip as remember Tim was on a hunting trip, and he wasn’t “

What spurred the Petroliana collection?

In 2013 when Sparky and Jeannie were headed to Guatemala to serve a mission their son Tim was running the Storage Park. He suggested “dressing up the park a bit” Sparky had been mildly collecting a few gas pumps here and there and had about 11 in total. Restoring the first pump that once sat outside Sparky’s home. We put them in front of the office of the Storage Park and some of the few old signs on the walls there.

Tim restored a few more pumps while Sparky was away and when Sparky returned is when the real collecting begin to take place. Tim suggested they go hunting for more pumps and so they did. So back to “picking “ it was but new and improved with the internet and facebook in tow. They learned that gas pump collectors also collected signs and so the sign collecting was added to the search. The first sign was the Kendall Oil sign which hangs on the right upper side of one of the outdoor buildings.

This begin the new and improved hunting and picking that is what Sparks Event Center has now become!