This year marks a major milestone for Bluewater – our 40th anniversary! From humble beginnings in a suburban garage to becoming one of the nation’s most trusted names in event technology and AV Integration, our journey has been defined by innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence that’s never wavered.
Founded in 1985 by two brothers, Tom Schoeneberger and Paul Rose, Bluewater began as BlueWater Visual Services, operating out of the garage at Paul’s family home on Brookside Drive in Southfield, Michigan. In those early days, we were a simple AV rental business, rolling TVs and VCRs into conference rooms and classrooms across the region.
But as technology evolved, so did we. Throughout the ’90s and early 2000s, Bluewater embraced new tools and capabilities — from high-end projection systems to massive LED video walls. By the time immersive experiences and digital storytelling became the gold standard in live events, Bluewater was already paving the way with cutting-edge solutions and a uniquely creative approach.
Today, the Bluewater family has grown to include a professional management team — a group of dedicated leaders who navigate the company’s continued growth and evolution. This blend of family roots and professional expertise fosters a culture of care, consistency, and creativity that continues to set us apart.
What started with TVs on carts has grown into something truly extraordinary. We now serve Fortune 500 clients, global brands, and top institutions with services ranging from live event production and AV integration to experiential activations and software-driven installations. Through it all, our vision remains the same: Make People Smile. Whether it’s in our day-to-day interactions with clients or in the unforgettable experiences we create, we strive to spark joy, leave a lasting impression, and deliver moments that matter. That’s what drives us. That’s what sets us apart.
“Forty years ago, we couldn’t have imagined the journey ahead — the technology we’d embrace, the challenges we’d overcome, or the incredible clients and team members we’d meet along the way. What’s kept us grounded is our belief that people come first. At the heart of everything we do is a simple mission: to make people smile. Whether it’s through our daily interactions or the experiences we help create, that’s what drives us. We’re proud to celebrate this milestone, and we’re even more excited for what’s still to come.” – Scott Schoeneberger, Managing Partner
To our partners, clients, team members (past and present), and the community that’s supported us — thank you. This celebration belongs to all of us. Here’s to the next 40 years of pushing boundaries, embracing change, and creating unforgettable experiences.