Paramount's 2022 post-Emmys bash took over Catch Steak LA, lining a teak-finished marquee with posters of some of the brand's hit shows, including Yellowjackets on Showtime and 1883, Paramount+'s prequel to Yellowstone.Photo: Line 8 Photography
LOS ANGELES—The 74th annual Primetime Emmys awarded its top trophies to shows that have won them before—including Succession for Outstanding Drama and Ted Lasso for Outstanding Comedy—but the ceremony, which was co-produced by Done+Dusted and Hudlin Entertainment, still had plenty of welcome surprises (Sheryl Lee Ralph sang "Endangered Species" and Jennifer Coolidge danced!).
Saturday Night Live's Kenan Thompson hosted the awards ceremony, which aired on NBC Sept. 12 live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Record-setting wins included Squid Game star Lee Jung-jae becoming the first actor of Asian descent to win Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series; Euphoria star Zendaya becoming the youngest person ever, at 26, to win in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category two times; and the aforementioned Ralph becoming only the second Black woman in history to win Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
And with all the glitz and glamour of the Emmys' on-air red carpet and programming comes, of course, the off-air pre- and after-parties. Take the Governors Gala, for example, which returned in full force this year, hosting its soiree completely outdoors for the first time ever—fitting for its "Light Up the Night" theme. Cheryl Cecchetto, founder and CEO of Sequoia Productions—the event production company that has hosted this event for 24 years—said of the theme: "We've done just that."
We "took the plaza, added that elegance, and lit up the night with an environment that has been sculpted by suspended ceilings of Edison lights, by LED draped bars, and by a stage that's framed with an incredible light decor installation," Cecchetto explained.
BizBash spotted no shortage of incredible lighting installations this year—both complemented by stunning florals—at Netflix's monochromatic dream of an after-party held at Milk Studios and at Disney's modern botanical garden-inspired soiree at Otium and The Broad.
Keep scrolling for wow-worthy event decor, activations, and performances celebrating TV's biggest night...
2022 Netflix Emmy Celebration
Netflix celebrated its top TV talent at Milk Studios with a stylish soiree produced by Best Events. A large sculpture of a ribbon "N," made of acrylic panels, was filled with neutral-colored florals, a mesmerizing contrast to the black carpeting that led attendees inside. Floral Crush Studio designed florals for the event. Event Carpet Pros handled carpeting.
Photo: Tiffany Rose
The event transformed the raw space into a posh tone-on-tone affair layered with shades of cream, champagne, and gold. Taking inspiration from interior design trends, the events team wanted to create an inviting space that felt both relaxed and opulent at the same time. These layered archways—created by Treehouse Fabrication & Scenic—proved to be a popular backdrop for many celebrities' photo ops. (Think: Ozark star and Emmys 2022 winner Julia Garner and the cast of Squid Game, to name a few.)
Photo: Tiffany Rose
Inside, hanging above the dance floor, was a stunning lighting installation made of softly lit rattan pendants layered with floral clouds made of orchids, pampas grass, and dripping amaranthus designed by Floral Crush. (Consider our jaws dropped.) Lighten Up handled lighting. Dazian designed drapings.
Photo: Tiffany Rose
A shadow box-style DJ booth, a luminous acrylic console, was helmed by DJ Benjamin Walker and encased matching florals from the event's entrance.
Photo: Tiffany Rose
Lounges and seating were procured from residential interior design resources in boucle, leather, and velvet. With over 600 guests in attendance, the night ended with a dance party encircling the history-making cast and director of Squid Game under the canopy of floral clouds.
Photo: Tiffany Rose
74th Emmys Governors Gala
Back in full force for the first time since 2019, this year's Governors Gala—the Television Academy's official after-party—also marked the first time the event was completely open air, fitting for a theme of "Light Up the Night." The alfresco bash took place outside on the plaza of the Los Angeles Convention Center following the awards on Sept. 12. "It's fantastic to be back," said Cheryl Cecchetto, founder and CEO of Sequoia Productions, the event production company that has produced this event for 24 years. This year, the company worked under the direction of Barb Held, the VP of event production at the Television Academy.
Cecchetto added that the design intertwined with the contemporary elements of the venue, plus the addition of trees, greenery, and hedges to complement the existing outdoor motif. "We decided to tweak the name to gala, because 'gala' felt like it really was an extension of where we are," she said. The color scheme also infused hues of the Television Academy's key art, including purples, corals, and (of course) Emmy gold.
Cecchetto added that the design intertwined with the contemporary elements of the venue, plus the addition of trees, greenery, and hedges to complement the existing outdoor motif. "We decided to tweak the name to gala, because 'gala' felt like it really was an extension of where we are," she said. The color scheme also infused hues of the Television Academy's key art, including purples, corals, and (of course) Emmy gold.
Photo: Jerry Hayes for Sequoia Productions
![Guest areas were framed by open-air light canopies, but the entire event resembled 'one big cohesive space where everyone felt like, 'I'm at a gala—my gown makes sense,'' Cecchetto said. 'We're outside, it's beautiful, [the space] has incredible functionality, and we're celebrating the television industry.'](https://img.bizbash.com/files/base/bizbash/bzb/image/2022/09/unnamed.63228077b1fe1.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&q=70&w=400)
Guest areas were framed by open-air light canopies, but the entire event resembled "one big cohesive space where everyone felt like, 'I'm at a gala—my gown makes sense,'" Cecchetto said. "We're outside, it's beautiful, [the space] has incredible functionality, and we're celebrating the television industry."
Photo: Jerry Hayes for Sequoia Productions
LA-based celebrity chefs showcased their culinary talents with a lavish tasting menu of specialty dishes along an area of the event known as "Chef's Row." James Beard Award winner Sherry Yard (right), as seen on Great Holiday Baking Show, MasterChef: Legends, and Cake Wars, was on-site sharing her splashy signature desserts.
Photo: Jerry Hayes for Sequoia Productions
The gala band Collective LA—comprising singers Amber Nicole, Dani Moz, Brennan Villines, Bryon Dodson, and Bel-Ami—kept guests on their feet under the light canopies. The band was presented by Downbeat Agency.
And even though LA weather wasn't as cooperative as it could've been on the days leading up to the outdoor event—temperatures were higher than normal and strong winds from a nearby tropical storm were in effect—Cecchetto said her dedicated team was vital in mounting those challenges. "Every one of us will roll up our sleeves and make it work," she said. "There's absolutely nothing we don't do. ... And the trust of the Television Academy, with Barb Held and Maury McIntyre, has been absolutely priceless."
And even though LA weather wasn't as cooperative as it could've been on the days leading up to the outdoor event—temperatures were higher than normal and strong winds from a nearby tropical storm were in effect—Cecchetto said her dedicated team was vital in mounting those challenges. "Every one of us will roll up our sleeves and make it work," she said. "There's absolutely nothing we don't do. ... And the trust of the Television Academy, with Barb Held and Maury McIntyre, has been absolutely priceless."
Photo: Jerry Hayes for Sequoia Productions
Paramount's 2022 Emmy Party
Paramount's 2022 post-Emmys bash took over Catch Steak LA, lining a teak-finished marquee with posters of some of the brand's hit shows, including Yellowjackets on Showtime and 1883, Paramount+'s prequel to Yellowstone.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
The event was designed and produced by Event Eleven and overseen by Deva Kehoe, the SVP of talent relations, events, and promotions for Showtime, alongside Stephen Kipp, the SVP of events and brand experience for Paramount. The mission was to bring the event to life through cross-divisional unity of the brand portfolio. Thus, a step and repeat displayed logos for Paramount-owned networks that include Showtime, Nickelodeon, and CBS. Floral Crush Studio handled florals for the event.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
The event design intertwined pops of Paramount's classic blue and white accents with a hint of amber, giving guests a warm and welcoming glow. DJ Michelle Pesce spun tracks from her Paramount-branded booth. CBC Technical handled AV.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
One area of the space paid homage to RuPaul's Drag Race, which is available to stream on Paramount+. Images by Lighting designed lighting for the event, while Alpha and Omega handled fabrication.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
In what is surely a nod to the survivalist theme of Yellowjackets, a corner of the event's on-site bar was outfitted with forest-inspired accents and glowing candles. A wooden drink menu advertised show-inspired beverages playfully named "Antler Queen" and "Misty's Mushroom Tea."
Photo: Line 8 Photography
The Walt Disney Co.'s Emmys Party
After a successful fete in 2019 at Otium, located adjacent to The Broad, Disney's Emmys party returned to the venue for another impressive celebration. Sterling Engagements Inc., which produced and designed the event, conceptualized it as "modern botanic brilliance," with picturesque garden blooms and shimmering jewel tones.
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
Sterling Engagements worked with Shawna Yamamoto Event Design on floral design and decor. A standout installation included this dreamy, museum-inspired floral tunnel.
"Modern botanic brilliance began by the simple idea to integrate jewel tones, botanical greens, and luxe blooms," said Alexandra Rembac, the founder and creative director at Sterling Engagements. "Then we added layers of European whimsy and alluring details."
"Modern botanic brilliance began by the simple idea to integrate jewel tones, botanical greens, and luxe blooms," said Alexandra Rembac, the founder and creative director at Sterling Engagements. "Then we added layers of European whimsy and alluring details."
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
The chic botanical garden setting extended to the area that served as the heartbeat of the party, dubbed "The Greenhouse." Here, guests found stunning floral moments and VIP lounges. Sterling Engagements worked with Edge Design and Decor on lounge furniture and bars; Bright Event Rentals on rentals; Jackson Shrub Supply on trees, plants, and shrubs; and Event Carpet Pros on carpet and flooring.
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
The trend of floral-filled, show-stopping lighting installations was also found at Disney's bash—this time made of inverted, suspended blooms. Amber Event Production designed lighting and chandeliers.
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
To complement The Greenhouse, there was a second environment—the Blumen Garden—which was designed to feel like a blooming modern treehouse. A picturesque photo studio, which this year was helmed by famed photographer Brian Bowen Smith, allowed guests to feel as if they were under arches and walls found in France.
"I was fortunate to spend some time in France as I was developing this design," Rembac explained. "Everywhere I turned, I connected with the architecture, the botanical beauty, the interior design literally everywhere, and so many colorful blooms. France was such a large source of inspiration for this event, and post-event as I reflect on the outcome, I am so grateful for that."
"I was fortunate to spend some time in France as I was developing this design," Rembac explained. "Everywhere I turned, I connected with the architecture, the botanical beauty, the interior design literally everywhere, and so many colorful blooms. France was such a large source of inspiration for this event, and post-event as I reflect on the outcome, I am so grateful for that."
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
The French architecture motif extended to the luxe lounge areas inside The Greenhouse, where attendees could relax on furnishings in jewel tones like teal, emerald, and fuchsia.
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
At the party, newly minted Emmy winner Amanda Seyfried—who won Outstanding Actress in a Miniseries or Movie Made for TV for her starring role in Hulu's original series The Dropout—stopped for a soundbite.
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
For this event, Sterling Engagements partnered with Otium's founder and chef Tim Hollingsworth on F&B to elevate the experience. Shannon Warner Events served as F&B liaison.
Photo: Jordana Hazel, Hazelnut Photography
HBO | HBO Max Emmy Event
HBO | HBO Max's post-ceremony party—designed and produced by Bespoke Boheme—returned to the San Vicente Bungalows and leaned into the space's laidback luxe vibes, and played with the idea of a private, secret garden full of surprise destinations. Florals were designed by Winston & Main.
Photo: David Jon Photography
The idea of the tonal, green “leaf garden” pattern for the event's hand-painted wallpaper was inspired by the Bungalows’ own fig leaf-patterned banquettes.
Photo: Courtesy of Bespoke Boheme
Bespoke Boheme was inspired by the playfulness of the famous Madonna Inn, as well as some of the more refined monochromatic looks coming out of high-fashion. Shine On Lighting Co. and Launch AV handled lighting.
Photo: David Jon Photography
The event featured two portrait studios with notable photographers, a sushi and sake station upstairs (pictured), tacos and tequila downstairs, handmade ice cream in the garden, and even fresh caviar in the secret “Aqua Lounge.” (Though it didn’t remain secret for long.)
Photo: David Jon Photography
"Since we've returned to in-person events, we've made a concerted effort to bring the focus of our events back to our two biggest strengths: our content and our talent," said HBO's VP of events Adriana Contreras. "Partnering with San Vicente Bungalows for the second year in a row allowed us to host an intimate, unforgettable celebration in an already iconic venue. From the rich green garden motif and its colorful iterations in lighting, furniture, and florals … to our photo studio and pairings of sushi and sake and tacos and tequila, our guests were able to let their hair down and celebrate this year's Emmys."
Photo: David Jon Photography
Colman Domingo's Pre-Emmys Celebration
The weekend before the primetime awards, Euphoria star Colman Domingo—who won his first Emmy this year for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series, which was announced at the Creative Arts Emmys ceremony—toasted to his victory with a close group of friends and family at an outdoor affair hosted by Ketel One Vodka. Decor for the event included cascading florals in Colman's initials.
Photo: Courtesy of Connor Gaskey
The event—held at a private residence in West Hollywood—featured music by DJ Josiah Bell.
Photo: Courtesy of Connor Gaskey
Creative cocktail offerings with Ketel One Vodka included miniature martinis, frozen cosmopolitans, clarified bloody marys, and espresso martinis. The event was produced by NVE Experience Agency and Cocktail Academy.
Photo: Courtesy of Connor Gaskey
Guests included (from left to right) singer Kelly Rowland, Insecure star Yvonne Orji, author and former Teen Vogue editor-in-chief Elaine Welteroth, and actress Aja Naomi King.
Photo: Courtesy of Connor Gaskey
MPTF's "Evening Before the Emmys" Benefit
The Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF) hosted its 16th annual "Evening Before the Emmys" benefit in Los Angeles. This year, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson served as one of the event's co-chairs. The high-profile to-do raised $3 million to further MPTF's mission of supporting working and retired members of the entertainment community with programs that include temporary financial assistance, caregiving support, case management, and residential living.
Photo: Shutterstock for MPTF
Attendees were treated to a concert curated by Jackson—who is also an MPTF Board of Governor member—that featured performances from him and Snoop Dogg, as well as special guests Flo Rida, Jeremih, Lil Tjay, Mann, O.T. Genasis, Tony Yayo, and Uncle Murda.
The event was designed as a "relaxed town square atmosphere in the park," according to a press release, by Revelry Event Designers. Specialty food was provided by Carmelized Productions (from Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo).
The event was designed as a "relaxed town square atmosphere in the park," according to a press release, by Revelry Event Designers. Specialty food was provided by Carmelized Productions (from Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo).
Photo: Shutterstock for MPTF
eBay and GBK's VIP Emmys Gifting Suite
On Sept. 9-10, eBay and GBK Productions hosted a luxury gifting suite at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in honor of the Emmys. Here, talent was able to peruse sponsored booths and try out products to take home. Tequila brand El Cristiano was a crowd favorite. (Pictured: Never Have I Ever star Benjamin Norris sampling a pour.)
Photo: Genevieve Adams
Artist MPR Riche Rich enjoyed a bottle of El Cristiano Tequila Extra Anejo at the gifting suite. And this year's lounge—one of GBK's Brand Bars, which the company produces with different brands around large events throughout the year—included more than $60,000 worth of gifts, trips, luxury Items, and gift cards.
Photo: Genevieve Adams
It's not an Emmys party without a flash of Emmy gold. One of the coveted trophies "posed" for a photo op alongside El Cristiano bottles.
Photo: Genevieve Adams
Backstage Creations' Giving Suite
This year's Backstage Creations Giving Suite benefitting the Television Academy Foundation's educational programs was designed by Josh Johnson Home, and sported his signature look of "modern Hollywood glamour."
Photo: Willy Sanjuan/Dana Pleasant/Invision for Backstage Creations
Emmy winner Sheryl Lee Ralph, whose acceptance speech was undoubtedly one of the ceremony's highlights, posed in the Backstage Creations Giving Suite with her new trophy.
Photo: Willy Sanjuan/Dana Pleasant/Invision for Backstage Creations
