Safari Style

Helio’s newest product made its debut on Wednesday, August 8, at the Sunset Tower Hotel. But despite the phone’s name—Ocean—organizers resisted the too-obvious beachy decor theme, opting for an African resort look instead. But the ocean idea did come into play in the event’s charity component, which benefited beach cleanup org Heal the Bay.

“This event was the perfect tie-in for launching Ocean and was a good way to give back to the community,” said Helio marketing director Julie Obst, who oversaw the event.Event producer Tony Schubert of Event Eleven used plush white couches and black coffee tables on oversize black rugs, as well as toned-down amber lighting. Schubert said he wanted to create "a poolside resort vibe with a few subtle touches," such as tree stumps as end tables, candle lanterns surrounding the pool, and exotic floral arrangements surrounded by candles on tables.

Amy Smart and Emmy Rossum cohosted the event, and celebs including Bai Ling and the newly reformed Paris Hilton were among the intimate group of guests.