Live Engraving on Mugs for the Perkins Flagship Grand Opening in Orlando

In a city known for its vibrant culture and innovation, the Perkins Flagship Store in Orlando recently unveiled its new reimagined location—a modern twist on a beloved brand. As Perkins continues to redefine its dining experience with fresh interiors, contemporary design, and an elevated ambiance, the grand opening was the perfect moment to introduce a unique, interactive element. At this exclusive event for media and influencers, A Handful of Letters was invited to create an unforgettable live art activation by custom-engraving mugs—a service that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern artistry.

Setting the Scene at the New Perkins Flagship Store

Perkins has long been synonymous with comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere, but this new flagship location in Orlando takes it to another level. Designed with a modern flair while still paying homage to its classic roots, the store offers a reimagined dining experience. With expansive, well-lit spaces, contemporary decor, and a strategic location in one of Orlando’s bustling neighborhoods, the new Perkins Flagship Store is more than just a restaurant—it’s a destination for both food enthusiasts and trendsetters.

The grand opening event was meticulously planned to showcase this transformation. Media representatives and influencers, totaling between 60 and 80 guests, gathered to experience the new space firsthand. Amid the excitement, the live engraving activation became a highlight of the evening, perfectly complementing the innovative spirit of Perkins’ refreshed identity.

The Live Engraving Activation: Merging Art with Experience

At the heart of the grand opening was a dynamic live art activation provided by A Handful of Letters. Tasked with engraving custom designs on a series of mugs, the goal was to turn everyday items into unique works of art that not only serve as memorable keepsakes but also enhance the overall guest experience.

Using an array of techniques—ranging from custom engraving and precise etching to refined calligraphy and elegant cursive lettering—I transformed each mug into a personalized masterpiece. The process was executed live over the course of two hours, during which guests had the opportunity to witness the transformation from a blank canvas into a bespoke work of art.

The live activation showcased a blend of various artisanal techniques. I combined traditional engraving methods with modern calligraphy to create designs that were both timeless and contemporary. Here’s a closer look at the creative process:

• Custom Engraving and Calligraphy:
  I used specialized tools to engrave intricate designs and messages directly onto the surface of the mugs. Whether it was bold block lettering or delicate script work, each design was crafted with precision. To add an extra layer of sophistication, I incorporated elements of calligraphy and cursive lettering. This technique not only personalized each mug but also added an artistic flourish that resonated with the refined aesthetic of the new Perkins location.

The challenge was exhilarating—completing around 60 to 80 fully customized mugs in just two hours required both speed and precision. The result was a collection of personalized mugs that doubled as art pieces and served as exclusive mementos of the grand opening.

Guest Interaction and Social Impact

One of the most rewarding aspects of the activation was the level of engagement it generated among guests. As media and influencers mingled throughout the event, many gravitated toward the live engraving station to witness the creative process in action. The atmosphere was electric, with guests snapping photos, recording videos, and sharing their experiences on social media platforms.

This interactive experience not only enhanced the live event but also extended its reach online—especially with Orlando's top food and activities influencers in attendance, alongside key media representatives and city officials. The visually striking transformation of each mug provided plenty of shareable moments, driving engagement through social media coverage.

Elevating the Perkins Experience

Integrating live art into the grand opening was a strategic move that elevated Perkins’ brand identity. By transforming ordinary mugs into personalized works of art, the activation underscored Perkins’ commitment to innovation and quality. Here’s how the synergy between art and brand played out:

• Enhanced Storytelling:
  Each engraved mug told a unique story—one that resonated with Perkins’ modern approach to dining while honoring its heritage. The live engraving session was not just a demonstration of skill; it was a narrative that connected the brand with its guests on a deeper level.

• Memorable Keepsakes:
  The customized mugs served as tangible reminders of the event, ensuring that guests carried home a piece of the experience. These keepsakes are conversation starters, reinforcing Perkins’ refreshed image every time they’re used.

• Digital Amplification:
  The visual appeal of the live engraving process made for compelling social media content. Influencers and attendees shared their experiences, contributing to a significant boost in online engagement and further solidifying Perkins’ presence in the digital landscape.

About A Handful of Letters

A Handful of Letters is proud to be based in Orlando, where creativity meets innovation. With a dedicated team of three talented live event artists, we specialize in transforming events with our unique blend of live engraving, custom calligraphy, cursive lettering, and bespoke etching. Our services are not limited to Orlando—we travel nationwide to bring our creative activations to a diverse range of events, from corporate launches and influencer gatherings to private celebrations and brand activations.

We offer an extensive suite of live art services, including:

• Glass and Metal Engraving

• Live Calligraphy

• Leather Monograming

• Foil Embossing

• Fashion Portraits

If you’re looking to elevate your next event with personalized, interactive art that leaves a lasting impression, we invite you to connect with us. You can reach out directly via email at hello@ahandfulofletters.com or fill out this form to get started on creating unforgettable, Instagram‑worthy moments.

xo,

Valentina, lead artist and owner.