"This fall, we are seeing lots of eucalyptus greens being used,” says Intrigue Designs’ Sarah Campbell. "The muted green tone of the leaves accents the rich fall color palettes perfectly. Eucalyptus is being used in everything from bouquets coordinating with oranges, reds, and amber tones, to long garlands running the length of the table."
Photos: Travis Curry (Campbell), Liz and Ryan (florals)
For fall, Bloom Floral Design’s Jennifer Haf is using a variety of dahlias, Japanese anemone, grapes on the vine, fountain grasses, foraged foliage, fruit on the vine, and more. She chooses “layers of texture and color that exude the calm fall brings,” she says.
Photos: Courtesy of Bloom Floral Design
“A change of season is always inspiring,” says Karen Amit of Among the Wildflowers. "This fall, I’m excited to create with autumn-toned garden roses, hops on a vine, antique lace hydrangea, luscious dahlias, rose hips, echinacea pods, fruiting branches, edible herbs, and fall foliage."
Photos: Robin Prather (Amit), Courtesy of Among the Wildflowers (florals)
“This fall we are using more plants and mixed containers to create lush, complex tablescapes “ says Flora Fauna’s Judy Bourgeois, who is also mixing vintage and modern vessels for presentation. She says her team is using more live plants, especially air plants and cacti, which “offer unique shapes, varieties, and colors," and are an ecologically sound choice as well.
Photos: Courtesy of Flora Fauna
Jes Gordon’s designs center on masculine burgundy tones accented with bold metallics, such as copper and rose gold. Magnolia, pear, plum branches, chocolate cosmos, and black scabies are all among her team’s seasonal picks. Beyond that, Gordon’s been working with what she perceives as a trend of using florals to accent the existing architecture of venues.
Photos: Andre Maier (Gordon), Courtesy of Jes Gordon (florals)
"This fall, I'm incorporating a variety of metals to accent the warmth of the fall colors,” says Krissy Price of Pollen Floral Design. "A copper urn filled with creams dahlias, pink garden roses, and burgundy foliage looks lovely on a reclaimed wood table. I love working with a color palette that nods to fall, but isn't overly ostentatious. This year, I'm loving a palette of cream, peach, tomato red, and burgundy. It creates a mood that evokes fall, but doesn't need a pumpkin or a gourd to do it."
Photos: Cambria Grace Photography (Price), Courtesy of Pollen Floral Design
"In this year's fall display, we chose to use chrysanthemums because they are a flower that grows in seasonal shades of red, yellow, orange, and burgundy, serving as vivid representations of fall,” says Patricia Streeter, the conservatory manager at Bellagio Resort & Casino responsible for the conservatory and botanical gardens. “In addition, we incorporated a 40-foot-tall watermill, a talking tree, animated squirrels, a 12-foot-tall harvest basket, and mythical wooden creatures. To bring a mix of wonder created by nature, we also placed live pumpkins ranging from 450 to 1,200 pounds throughout the conservatory."
Photo: Courtesy of Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Urban Decay x Gwen Stefani Launch Event
The launch of Gwen Stefani’s new collection with Urban Decay took place January 7 at Studio 450 in New York. The bar design was inspired by the collection, using its graphic print on the front with gold circles behind the bar that recalled the eye shadow and blush palettes. Gold glitter champagne bottles customized for the event rounded out the display.
Photo: Joe Schildhorn/BFA.com
NBC Universal Golden Globes Party
NBC Universal's annual rooftop party took place at the Beverly Hilton. Among the architectural elements in the Moroccan-style space was a sunken water feature that party producer and designer Angel City Designs custom built as the centerpiece of a raised lounge area. The fountain had a faux Moroccan tile bottom with two water sprayers, all accented with white floral petals.
Photo: Sean Twomey/2me Studios
Based in Chicago, Elliewood has pre-styled entertaining collections called “Party in a Box” or “Party Packs.” The boxes contain disposable items—think paper place mats, tablecloths, plates, napkins, and utensils—and favors such as confetti. Orderable online, the stylish collections have themes such as “Fete,” which is suited for office birthday celebrations, and are sold in settings of eight to 16. Guests can also place orders for smaller events à la carte. Shipping time is two to seven business days.
Photo: Courtesy of Elliewood
Heirloom Catering & Event Design, based in suburban Washington, launched earlier this year. The company provides corporate and social catering from in-office lunches to gala dinners, as well as interactive stations like a mini doughnut dessert bar with toppings such as candied bacon, whipped dulce de leche, and orange cocoa liqueur. It also offers event planning services.
Photo: Krista A Jones
The Breakers Palm Beach
Bored of traditional theater- or classroom-style room setups? Designing a arrangement with an assortment of furniture "is an ideal way to provide flexibility and choices for attendees’ different personalities," says Michele Wilde, the resort's director of conference services and event sales.
Photo: Courtesy of the Breakers Palm Beach
The Breakers Palm Beach
Comfort is a priority, especially during lengthy meetings, Wilde says. Offering multiple seating options can keep attendees engaged and also suit different personalities.
Photo: Courtesy of the Breakers Palm Beach
The Breakers Palm Beach
A threesided set up gives attendees a sense of proximity to the speakers.
Photo: Courtesy of the Breakers Palm Beach
Quartz's the Next Billion: New York
Quartz also experimented with seating. In the front of the room there were couches reserved for V.I.P. guests, and in the back of the room there was a row of high-top tables where laptop users could work.
Photo: Courtesy of Quartz
Quartz's the Next Billion: New York
Bags that attendees received at registration had various charts taken from Quartz stories that could serve as conversation starters.
Photo: Courtesy of Quartz
Quartz's the Next Billion: New York
Q&A sessions with speakers continued in a designated space outside of the ballroom. The move allowed more intimate access to speakers.
Photo: Courtesy of Quartz
Quartz's the Next Billion: New York
Quartz encourages its sponsors to bring unusual and engaging activations to its events. One example was a fully functional mini planetarium from Qualcomm.
Photo: Courtesy of Quartz
'Variety' and 'WWD' StyleMakers Event
Not every event wants to meet at a hotel. Variety and WWD chose Smashbox Studios for a different feel.
Photo: Courtesy of Variety
'Variety' and 'WWD' StyleMakers Event
An unexpected addition to the stage was a DJ booth.
Photo: Courtesy of Variety
'Variety' and 'WWD' StyleMakers Event
Before lunch and the presentation, guests gathered in a sponsor activation area. Its design had a look consistent with the main room, with the same color palette and furniture rentals.
Photo: Courtesy of Variety
Preston Bailey
Preston Bailey Designs
Bailey’s dramatic floral designs and theatrical flair have made fans out of celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Liza Minnelli, and Donna Karan, as well as brands such as Sandals Resorts, Godiva, and Hewlett-Packard. The high-profile New York-based designer’s lush, over-the-top designs have been featured in six books, plus countless TV shows and magazines.
On Twitter: @PrestonRBailey
Bailey’s dramatic floral designs and theatrical flair have made fans out of celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Liza Minnelli, and Donna Karan, as well as brands such as Sandals Resorts, Godiva, and Hewlett-Packard. The high-profile New York-based designer’s lush, over-the-top designs have been featured in six books, plus countless TV shows and magazines.
On Twitter: @PrestonRBailey
Photo: Courtesy of Preston Bailey
Private Event by Preston Bailey
"I love creating a unique place for guests to congregate and enjoy one another, so I thought, why not create a massive floral carpet that would serve both as a beautiful focal point and a gathering area? I designed a 'carpet' and filled it with hundreds of beautiful blooms and then covered it with Plexiglas. The result was a statement piece that allowed guests to dance on air." —Preston Bailey
Photo: Courtesy of PrestonBailey.com/John Labbe
André Wells
Events by André Wells
Wells launched his Washington-based, full-service production firm in 2004 and has since become one of the top planners in town, producing around 80 corporate, social, and nonprofit events a year in his signature glamorous, colorful style for members of Congress, BET, Dell, Disney, and more.
On Twitter: @AndreWells
Wells launched his Washington-based, full-service production firm in 2004 and has since become one of the top planners in town, producing around 80 corporate, social, and nonprofit events a year in his signature glamorous, colorful style for members of Congress, BET, Dell, Disney, and more.
On Twitter: @AndreWells
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
BET Honors Dinner by André Wells
"I like the chic simplicity of it. We used crystal and glass elements to make the historic building more modern and fun." —André Wells
Photo: David De Pas
Colin Cowie
Colin Cowie Enterprises
With a 26-year career that includes designing lush, extravagant events for big-name corporate clients and A-list celebrities, plus nine books, a wedding Web site, a line of home products for HSN, and too many television appearances to count, Cowie is a solid candidate for “Most Famous Person in the Event Industry.” He brings his five-senses design approach to around 25 projects a year, four to six of which he is heavily involved in.
On Twitter: @ColinCowie
With a 26-year career that includes designing lush, extravagant events for big-name corporate clients and A-list celebrities, plus nine books, a wedding Web site, a line of home products for HSN, and too many television appearances to count, Cowie is a solid candidate for “Most Famous Person in the Event Industry.” He brings his five-senses design approach to around 25 projects a year, four to six of which he is heavily involved in.
On Twitter: @ColinCowie
Photo: Courtesy of Colin Cowie
Discover Kazakhstan Anniversary Dinner by Colin Cowie
"My favorite part about the design was the research trip to Kazakhstan. Since the national color is blue, I created a palette of blue and grey and used elements like cobalt blue mirrors to showcase a modern Kazakhstan, and yellow miniature calla lilies for the bright future they have ahead of them." —Colin Cowie
Photo: Colin Miller
David Beahm
David Beahm Design
Beahm’s inventive, breathtaking designs have been in high demand since his big break, planning the nuptials of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas in 2000. Beahm and his New York-based team design more than 200 events annually, including lavish social, nonprofit, and corporate parties for Memorial Sloan-Kettering, Victoria’s Secret, and Louis Vuitton. Beahm is especially known for his sculptural, dramatic floral arrangements.
On Twitter: @davidbeahmdesig
Beahm is speaking at BizBash’s Event Innovation Forum—South Florida on April 10.
Beahm’s inventive, breathtaking designs have been in high demand since his big break, planning the nuptials of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas in 2000. Beahm and his New York-based team design more than 200 events annually, including lavish social, nonprofit, and corporate parties for Memorial Sloan-Kettering, Victoria’s Secret, and Louis Vuitton. Beahm is especially known for his sculptural, dramatic floral arrangements.
On Twitter: @davidbeahmdesig
Beahm is speaking at BizBash’s Event Innovation Forum—South Florida on April 10.
Photo: Joanna Wilson Photography
Private Event by David Beahm
"We were influenced by our surroundings. We let the decor of Blue Hill at Stone Barns rule our aesthetic, letting nature dictate the design. The hand-hammered copper urn visually grounded the design." —David Beahm
Photo: Brian Dorsey Studios
Larry Abel & Raymond McCallister
Abel McCallister Designs
Business partners since 2004, Los Angeles-based Abel and McCallister specialize in stylized editorial events, consumer promotions, sponsor lounges, and other brand-focused experiential events for clients such as Chase, Sprint, Entertainment Weekly, and Elle. Their designs often include surprising product installations, such as a chandelier of Godiva chocolates or a mosaic of Garnier bottles.
On Twitter: @larryabel
Business partners since 2004, Los Angeles-based Abel and McCallister specialize in stylized editorial events, consumer promotions, sponsor lounges, and other brand-focused experiential events for clients such as Chase, Sprint, Entertainment Weekly, and Elle. Their designs often include surprising product installations, such as a chandelier of Godiva chocolates or a mosaic of Garnier bottles.
On Twitter: @larryabel
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
Fox's Treehouse of Horrors Party by Larry Abel & Raymond McCallister
"We imagined what an amusement park would look like in the world of the Simpsons. Attendees loved the way the characters were integrated into the games, and my favorite part was turning Whac-A-Mole into Maggie’s Peek-A-Boo Pumpkins." —Larry Abel
Photos: Courtesy of Abel McCallister Designs
Billy Butchkavitz
Billy Butchkavitz Design
Butchkavitz’s claim to fame is the eye-popping, Technicolor decor he has been creating for HBO’s annual Emmy and Golden Globes parties since 1999. Using custom tents, carpets, and furniture, and drawing inspiration from such diverse sources as the stone mosaic walkways of the Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, vintage Pucci fabrics, and modernist architect Oscar Neimeyer, his designs are always a kaleidoscope of color, patterns, and light projections.
Butchkavitz’s claim to fame is the eye-popping, Technicolor decor he has been creating for HBO’s annual Emmy and Golden Globes parties since 1999. Using custom tents, carpets, and furniture, and drawing inspiration from such diverse sources as the stone mosaic walkways of the Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, vintage Pucci fabrics, and modernist architect Oscar Neimeyer, his designs are always a kaleidoscope of color, patterns, and light projections.
Photo: Gabor Ekecs
HBO Emmy Party by Billy Butchkavitz
"I find out what will be trending and available to the public around the time of my event—and then I avoid it." —Billy Butchkavitz
Photo: Gabor Ekecs
Jaime Geffen and Brian Worley
YourBash
For four years, the Los Angeles-based creative duo has worked on designing movie premieres, product launches, and green-minded events including Fox’s American Idol finale party, the Foundation Polo Challenge, and the Teen Choice Awards.
On Twitter: @YourBASHjgeffen
On Twitter: @YourBASHbworley
For four years, the Los Angeles-based creative duo has worked on designing movie premieres, product launches, and green-minded events including Fox’s American Idol finale party, the Foundation Polo Challenge, and the Teen Choice Awards.
On Twitter: @YourBASHjgeffen
On Twitter: @YourBASHbworley
Photos: Shawn Smith (Worley), Courtesy of Jamie Geffen (Geffen)
Teen Choice Awards by Jaime Geffen and Brian Worley
"The V.I.P. tent was inspired by the surfboard that is given as the award. Each year it is fun to see what the award will look like and then get to design a space that represents it. This tends to be one of my favorite spaces to design because it allows for lots of color and whimsy." —Brian Worley
Photo: Sean Twomey/2me Studios
David Stark
David Stark Design and Production
Clients such as Target, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the IFC request Stark’s signature style, which combines an artistic sensibility with a sense of whimsy. Stark is known for using recycled materials and items that can be repurposed in his often flower-free installations and for his striking on-brand marketing ideas.
On Twitter: @DavidStarkInc
Clients such as Target, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the IFC request Stark’s signature style, which combines an artistic sensibility with a sense of whimsy. Stark is known for using recycled materials and items that can be repurposed in his often flower-free installations and for his striking on-brand marketing ideas.
On Twitter: @DavidStarkInc
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
U.S. State Department's Art in Embassies 50th Anniversary Gala by David Stark
"From atop a 20-foot-tall viewing platform, guests viewed a giant optical illusion ‘street’ drawing created by chalk artist Michael Macaulay as well as many other radical art installations, sculptures, performances, and video art pieces." —David Stark
Photo: Heidi Ehalt
Bronson van Wyck
Van Wyck & Van Wyck
New York-based van Wyck honed his design skills working as a protocol aide at the American Embassy in Paris and as a film set designer in Los Angeles before starting a business with his mother in 1999. Adept at creating a polished, whimsical look, van Wyck’s clients include high-profile private, corporate, and nonprofit entities such as Mercedes-Benz, billionaire George Soros, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
New York-based van Wyck honed his design skills working as a protocol aide at the American Embassy in Paris and as a film set designer in Los Angeles before starting a business with his mother in 1999. Adept at creating a polished, whimsical look, van Wyck’s clients include high-profile private, corporate, and nonprofit entities such as Mercedes-Benz, billionaire George Soros, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
Bergdorf Goodman's Anniversary Gala by Bronson van Wyck
"The second the guests crossed the threshold, they were transported to another world, through the looking glass and down the rabbit hole. We raided Bergdorf’s warehouse and brought scenic elements from iconic window displays over the past 111 years—this was their 111th anniversary after all." —Bronson van Wyck
Photo: Billy Farrell/BFAnyc.com
Jeffry Roick
The Carlu Corporation/McNabb Roick Events
With more than 28 years of experience, Roick is a one-stop shop for Toronto events, designing show-stopping party decor for big-name clients like Target and Chanel.
On Twitter: @mcnabbroick
With more than 28 years of experience, Roick is a one-stop shop for Toronto events, designing show-stopping party decor for big-name clients like Target and Chanel.
On Twitter: @mcnabbroick
Photo: Stacey Brandford Photography
Art Gallery of Ontario's Picasso Gala by Jeffry Roick
"The beauty of this design was the bold use of color, which complemented the essence of Picasso’s art without focusing on a specific piece of his work. It allowed guests to step into his world of color." —Jeffry Roick
Photo: Christina Gaspic
Garin Baura
Baura New York
Since he launched his firm in 2006, Baura’s aesthetic has been influenced by his graduate degree in Japanese and Chinese art history. He creates fresh, edgy branded environments for clients like AOL and Tumi by incorporating unusual conceptual designs and 3-D structures. Recent projects have included LED trays, iPad walls, and vegetable totem centerpieces.
Since he launched his firm in 2006, Baura’s aesthetic has been influenced by his graduate degree in Japanese and Chinese art history. He creates fresh, edgy branded environments for clients like AOL and Tumi by incorporating unusual conceptual designs and 3-D structures. Recent projects have included LED trays, iPad walls, and vegetable totem centerpieces.
Photo: Courtesy of Garin Baura
New Museum Client Dinner by Garin Baura
"We designed a sunset dinner to showcase the New Museum’s Sky Room venue. Top-tier clients mingled in a space designed to convey the experience of watching the summer sunset from a field of foxtail millet." —Garin Baura
Photo: Christian Grattan
Todd Fiscus
Todd Events
Fiscus founded his Dallas-based event design firm in 2003 and now personally designs and produces more than 250 events annually, including celebrity weddings and splashy events for clients like the Dallas Museum of Art, Audi, and Amfar. His company handles flowers, design, lighting, and installation and fabricates its own furnishings under the rental line Suite 206.
On Twitter: @toddevents
Fiscus founded his Dallas-based event design firm in 2003 and now personally designs and produces more than 250 events annually, including celebrity weddings and splashy events for clients like the Dallas Museum of Art, Audi, and Amfar. His company handles flowers, design, lighting, and installation and fabricates its own furnishings under the rental line Suite 206.
On Twitter: @toddevents
Photo: Stephen Karlisch
Two by Two for AIDS and Art Gala and Auction by Todd Fiscus
"I created a sweep at the rear of the room with a banquette wall covered in slipcovers in boxwood print. At the top of the curve was a waterfall of heather and hydrangeas. The seating in this area had a cocoon-like feeling. The chandeliers are actually painted Formica board in navy with phosphorus tape and
painted interiors." —Todd Fiscus
painted interiors." —Todd Fiscus
Photos: Roderick Peña
Steve Bales
Bold American Events & Catering
Bales founded the design and production division of Atlanta event company Bold American in 2003, where he specializes in creating layered atmospheres that highlight color and texture. His early career as a performer and musical revue producer informs the theatricality of his work, and his career highlights include producing premiere parties for NBC and the 10th anniversary celebration for the Indianapolis Colts.
On Twitter: @BoldEventsATL
Bales founded the design and production division of Atlanta event company Bold American in 2003, where he specializes in creating layered atmospheres that highlight color and texture. His early career as a performer and musical revue producer informs the theatricality of his work, and his career highlights include producing premiere parties for NBC and the 10th anniversary celebration for the Indianapolis Colts.
On Twitter: @BoldEventsATL
Photo: Artstar Photography by Laura Stone
Corporate Event by Steve Bales
"One of my favorite things is to take an ordinary space and turn it in to something completely unexpected. The Atlanta Hyatt, which was hosting an elite group of local and national corporate event planners, wanted to serve them dinner in one of the hotel kitchens. To make the space pop, we built floor-to-ceiling chalkboard walls on which we personalized each guest’s apron, laid wall-to-wall carpeting, and, my personal favorite, created one-of-a-kind hanging chandeliers out of plastic flatware. It was a complete transformation from boring to bold." —Steve Bales
Photo: Troy Kelly Studio
Jeffrey Foster
Event Creative
After a 10-year career in the fashion industry, Foster joined the Chicago-based Event Creative team in 2008. As senior event designer, he handles most of the company’s nonprofit business, designing as many as 100 events and galas a year for clients such as the Steppenwolf Theater, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
On Twitter: @eventcreative
After a 10-year career in the fashion industry, Foster joined the Chicago-based Event Creative team in 2008. As senior event designer, he handles most of the company’s nonprofit business, designing as many as 100 events and galas a year for clients such as the Steppenwolf Theater, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
On Twitter: @eventcreative
Photo: Rick Aguilar
Columbia College of Chicago Open Doors Gala by Jeffrey Foster
"The event showcases student work, which is contemporary with an edge, requiring an environment that celebrates that level of creativity." —Jeffrey Foster
Photo: Kyle Flubacker
Michelle Gubitosa and Nilda Martin
Phi Design Group
Gubitosa got her start in window displays and founded Boston-based event design and rental company PBD Events in 1985; Martin was a fashion stylist and boutique owner. The pair launched Phi Design Group five years ago. The duo often uses repetitive fixtures and found pieces in installations, and this spring they are launching an event rental branch called Reserve, specializing in custom tables, wall systems, and bars.
On Twitter: @phidesigngroup
Gubitosa got her start in window displays and founded Boston-based event design and rental company PBD Events in 1985; Martin was a fashion stylist and boutique owner. The pair launched Phi Design Group five years ago. The duo often uses repetitive fixtures and found pieces in installations, and this spring they are launching an event rental branch called Reserve, specializing in custom tables, wall systems, and bars.
On Twitter: @phidesigngroup
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
Quebec Biopharmaceutical Meeting by Michelle Gubitosa and Nilda Martin
"We designed and built the Kino Bar as an homage to Montreal native Kino Guerin, a master furniture builder and sculptor who bends rigid woods to get beautiful, graceful flow and movement." —Michelle Gubitosa
Photo: Michelle Gubitosa
Bryan Rafanelli
Rafanelli Events
Perhaps best known as the man behind Chelsea Clinton’s wedding, Rafanelli started his company in Boston in 1996, producing just three events a year. He now has four offices across the U.S. and handles more than 100 parties a year, creating eye-popping decor for fund-raising galas, state dinners, and corporate events.
On Twitter: @RafanelliEvents
Perhaps best known as the man behind Chelsea Clinton’s wedding, Rafanelli started his company in Boston in 1996, producing just three events a year. He now has four offices across the U.S. and handles more than 100 parties a year, creating eye-popping decor for fund-raising galas, state dinners, and corporate events.
On Twitter: @RafanelliEvents
Photo: Person + Killian Photography
Camp Harbor View Beach Ball by Bryan Rafanelli
"We were inspired by the beauty of Boston’s Harbor Islands at sunset, bringing the outside inside in a glass-enclosed tent surrounded by water." —Bryan Rafanelli
Photos: Michael Blanchard Photography
DeJuan Stroud
DeJuan Stroud Inc.
Leaving behind a career on Wall Street, Stroud decided to turn his longtime love of flowers and design into a business in 1996. He brings his sophisticated, clean look to events for clients such as the New York City Ballet, Universal Pictures, and HBO.
On Twitter: @DeJuanStroud
Leaving behind a career on Wall Street, Stroud decided to turn his longtime love of flowers and design into a business in 1996. He brings his sophisticated, clean look to events for clients such as the New York City Ballet, Universal Pictures, and HBO.
On Twitter: @DeJuanStroud
Photo: Mary Hilliard
New York City Ballet Spring Gala by DeJuan Stroud
"The inspiration was a formal French garden, which originated from the French dances performed that evening. To make the vast space seem cozier we floated panels of lattice with wisteria and smilax over the dinner tables. " —DeJuan Stroud
Photo: Mary Hilliard
Matthew David Hopkins
360 Design Events and Matthew David Celebrations
Hopkins splits his time creating contemporary, imaginative decor for social events and corporate events, benefits, and product launches for clients like Hearst, Uniqlo, and Evian. He always aims to be eco-aware, reusing and repurposing materials in stylish ways.
On Twitter: @360DesignEvents
Hopkins splits his time creating contemporary, imaginative decor for social events and corporate events, benefits, and product launches for clients like Hearst, Uniqlo, and Evian. He always aims to be eco-aware, reusing and repurposing materials in stylish ways.
On Twitter: @360DesignEvents
Photo: Courtesy of 360 Design Events/Jamie Watts Photography
Hudson River Park Trust Spring Gala by Matthew David Hopkins
"We brought Hudson River Park activities to life. We created centerpieces using park activities and surprising facts, and peppered them throughout the room. Together with the playful ceiling and unexpected programming, guests were tantalized from all angles." —Matthew David Hopkins
Photos: Courtesy of 360 Design Events/Jamie Watts Photography (room), Zev Greenfield (bicycle wheel)
Bill Heffernan
HMR Designs
Heffernan started his Chicago firm in 1979 and has since merged it with two other local firms to form a design collective with different price points, specialties, and points of view. Heffernan’s elegant aesthetic has set the tone at some of Chicago’s most high-profile events, including galas for the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Gardens.
Heffernan started his Chicago firm in 1979 and has since merged it with two other local firms to form a design collective with different price points, specialties, and points of view. Heffernan’s elegant aesthetic has set the tone at some of Chicago’s most high-profile events, including galas for the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Gardens.
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
Harris Theater Gala by Bill Heffernan
"We designed sheer white fabric cubes floating low over each table. This produced both an impressive vision and gave an intimacy to the enormous tent. We accented them with summery yet minimal branch projections in a blue-green shade, providing detail and a coolness to the warm evening." —Bill Heffernan
Photo: Fandl Photography
Jes Gordon
Jes Gordon/Proper Fun
Gordon started her career working at a flower shop at age 13, followed by post-college stints as a movie set designer and design director of Tavern on the Green in New York. Twenty years after launching her own business, Gordon funnels her energetic personality into creating eclectic, funky designs for social and corporate clients.
On Twitter: @JesGordon
Gordon started her career working at a flower shop at age 13, followed by post-college stints as a movie set designer and design director of Tavern on the Green in New York. Twenty years after launching her own business, Gordon funnels her energetic personality into creating eclectic, funky designs for social and corporate clients.
On Twitter: @JesGordon
Photo: Andre Maier
M&M's Super Bowl Event by Jes Gordon
"M&M's is an official sponsor of the Super Bowl, so we wanted to celebrate by creating an event that encompassed the glamorous side of chocolate. We wanted to create a luxurious yet fashion-forward speakeasy environment, which we felt was certainly befitting to the New Orleans-focused evening." —Jes Gordon
Photo: George Long
Nicky Balestrieri
ExtraExtra
Balestrieri has been giving a downtown edge to brand-focused marketing experiences since 2002, when indie-minded Paper magazine launched its events arm. Designing thought-out, interactive environments for brands such as Absolut, Target, and Mattel, he often works with builders and fabricators to create large-scale, attention-grabbing event decor.
On Twitter: @ExtraCreative
Balestrieri has been giving a downtown edge to brand-focused marketing experiences since 2002, when indie-minded Paper magazine launched its events arm. Designing thought-out, interactive environments for brands such as Absolut, Target, and Mattel, he often works with builders and fabricators to create large-scale, attention-grabbing event decor.
On Twitter: @ExtraCreative
Photo: Ysa Perez for BizBash
Barbie's Dream Closet at New York Fashion Week
"We wanted to create a space where guests could dream about being whoever they wanted to be. By playing with scale, technology, and theater we created a space that inspired young and old souls alike." —Nicky Balestrieri
Photo: BFA
Stanlee Gatti
Stanlee R. Gatti Designs
As San Francisco’s go-to event designer, Gatti has been creating visual art for high society weddings, glitzy galas, and fund-raisers for the likes of the San Francisco Opera, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, and author Danielle Steele since the 1980s.
On Twitter: @StanleeGatti
As San Francisco’s go-to event designer, Gatti has been creating visual art for high society weddings, glitzy galas, and fund-raisers for the likes of the San Francisco Opera, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, and author Danielle Steele since the 1980s.
On Twitter: @StanleeGatti
Photo: Courtesy of Stanlee Gatti
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Modern Ball by Stanlee Gatti
"I admire Picasso because his entire life was devoted to the creative process. I am presently going through my own blue period. Combining that with his guitar made for what I thought was a great theme for a museum party." —Stanlee Gatti
Photo: Aengus McGiffin
David Monn
David Monn L.L.C.
After working in the jewelry business and interior design for 17 years, New York-based Monn turned to event design in 2003, creating elegant, dramatic looks for high-profile clients such as Fendi, Tiffany & Company, the Time Warner Center, the Guggenheim, and the Metropolitan Museum.
After working in the jewelry business and interior design for 17 years, New York-based Monn turned to event design in 2003, creating elegant, dramatic looks for high-profile clients such as Fendi, Tiffany & Company, the Time Warner Center, the Guggenheim, and the Metropolitan Museum.
Photo: Courtesy of David Monn
Museum of Modern Art's Benefit
"The concept was to take MoMA’s ‘Party in the Garden’ and have it continue as the ‘Dinner in the Garden’ with a modern approach—classic roots, fruit trees, massive topiary cones, and French symmetry." —David Monn
Photo: Brian Dorsey Studios
Thomas Ford
Tom Ford Designs
The event designer—not that other Tom Ford—creates rich, luxurious-looking environments that often showcase dazzling overhead light installations and elaborate tenting for Hollywood’s elite. Perhaps most well-known for having designed the In Style and Warner Brothers Golden Globes party since 2002, Ford works with clients including Louis Vuitton, Sony Pictures, Disney, Fox, Victoria’s Secret, and Red Bull.
The event designer—not that other Tom Ford—creates rich, luxurious-looking environments that often showcase dazzling overhead light installations and elaborate tenting for Hollywood’s elite. Perhaps most well-known for having designed the In Style and Warner Brothers Golden Globes party since 2002, Ford works with clients including Louis Vuitton, Sony Pictures, Disney, Fox, Victoria’s Secret, and Red Bull.
Photo: Courtesy of Thomas Ford
'In Style' and Warner Brothers Golden Globes Party by Thomas Ford
"We used a theme of minerals and semiprecious stone, with Brazilian agates and geode images for the walls and tables, anthracite leather banquettes, and garnet-colored carpet. It took seven people four days to hang all the gold mirrored chain for the ceiling installation." —Thomas Ford
Photo: Nadine Froger Photography
Tom Kehoe
Kehoe Designs
Eschewing themes in favor of creating captivating environments, Kehoe’s clients include prestigious charities, high-profile fashion brands, and discerning corporate groups. From ceilings filled with balloons to custom 18-karat gold tables to large-scale fabricated installations, the Chicago-based designer delivers on the wow factor.
On Twitter: @KehoeDesigns
Eschewing themes in favor of creating captivating environments, Kehoe’s clients include prestigious charities, high-profile fashion brands, and discerning corporate groups. From ceilings filled with balloons to custom 18-karat gold tables to large-scale fabricated installations, the Chicago-based designer delivers on the wow factor.
On Twitter: @KehoeDesigns
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
Crate & Barrel 50th Anniversary by Tom Kehoe
"It was an honor to feel trusted and believed in by Carole Segal, who set the standard of retail design, not to mention the thrill of working with original pieces from the very beginning of Crate & Barrel." —Tom Kehoe
Photo: Ryan Sjostrom
Marc Hall
Marc Hall Design
After seven years as the creative director of events for Boston’s premier florist, Winston Flowers, Hall launched his own Boston event and garden design firm in 2010. Hall, who often incorporates his own line of handcrafted vessels, furniture, and textiles into his designs, recently opened a garden-focused boutique called Marc Hall Objekt.
After seven years as the creative director of events for Boston’s premier florist, Winston Flowers, Hall launched his own Boston event and garden design firm in 2010. Hall, who often incorporates his own line of handcrafted vessels, furniture, and textiles into his designs, recently opened a garden-focused boutique called Marc Hall Objekt.
Photo: Dan Hallman for BizBash
Corporate Holiday Party by Marc Hall
"The use of bamboo dipped in 18-karat gold with thousands of purple orchids imported from the Netherlands spilling out from crevices drilled into the bamboo all made for one explosive visual." —Marc Hall
Photo: Allison Evans
Ron Wendt
Ron Wendt Design
Wendt, who has a master’s degree in garden design from Columbia University, has been creating both contemporary and classic designs for the likes of Cartier, Swarovski, and Chanel since launching his New York-based company in 1991.
On Twitter: @RonWendtDesign
Wendt, who has a master’s degree in garden design from Columbia University, has been creating both contemporary and classic designs for the likes of Cartier, Swarovski, and Chanel since launching his New York-based company in 1991.
On Twitter: @RonWendtDesign
Photo: Noel Sutherland
Tiffany and Company Holiday Press Luncheon by Ron Wendt
"Tiffany approached us to create an ambience for its annual holiday press luncheon that was not overly holiday, considering it was held in November pre-Thanksgiving. I thought winter white seemed to be the perfect solution. The wall-to-wall carpeting, custom room dividers, and ultrasuede tablecloths with white New Zealand peonies set the mood for the holidays. It was elegant, modern, and also magical." —Ron Wendt
Photo: Gustavo Campos Photography
Jung Lee
Fete
Since 2002, discerning brides and corporate clients have sought out Lee’s modern design sensibility. Conceptualizing, planning, and designing all happens in-house, translating to a cohesive, detail-oriented look, from custom light fixtures to stylized seating charts.
On Twitter: @JungLeeFete
Since 2002, discerning brides and corporate clients have sought out Lee’s modern design sensibility. Conceptualizing, planning, and designing all happens in-house, translating to a cohesive, detail-oriented look, from custom light fixtures to stylized seating charts.
On Twitter: @JungLeeFete
Photo: Christian Oth
Private Event by Jung Lee
"We always want to create unexpected moments for guests. We accentuated the industrial elevator entrance with a massive installation. Guests rode the elevator to the party, and later it transformed into a bar, which surprised guests after dinner." —Jung Lee
Photos: Robert Bloom (exterior), Terry Gruber (hall)
Tony Schubert
Event Eleven
Over the past decade, Schubert has designed events for virtually everyone in the entertainment industry, with a client list that includes Rolling Stone, Disney, Vanity Fair, ESPN, and Entertainment Weekly. Combining modern ideas with clean accents, this past year has seen Schubert designing the SAG Awards after-party, the Emmys greenroom, Bill Clinton’s 65th birthday party, and Belvedere’s pre-Grammy celebration.
On Twitter: @event_eleven
Over the past decade, Schubert has designed events for virtually everyone in the entertainment industry, with a client list that includes Rolling Stone, Disney, Vanity Fair, ESPN, and Entertainment Weekly. Combining modern ideas with clean accents, this past year has seen Schubert designing the SAG Awards after-party, the Emmys greenroom, Bill Clinton’s 65th birthday party, and Belvedere’s pre-Grammy celebration.
On Twitter: @event_eleven
Photo: Courtesy of Tony Schubert
Samsung Galaxy Note II Launch by Tony Schubert
"The client asked for an interactive space where guests could use the Note II to do fun things like order a drink, share music, or design a T-shirt, device cover, or dessert. We designed four individual pod-like stations showing off each capability. We had one week to design, fabricate, and install the custom pieces." —Tony Schubert
Photo: Line 8 Photography
Lewis Miller
Lewis Miller Design
With a romantic, European aesthetic that tends toward the dramatic, Miller opened his New York event design boutique in 2002. He combines his rustic California farm country upbringing with a cosmopolitan edge to create lush, living installations for clients such as Givenchy, Paramount Pictures, Bulgari, and L’Oréal.
On Twitter: @LMDfloral
With a romantic, European aesthetic that tends toward the dramatic, Miller opened his New York event design boutique in 2002. He combines his rustic California farm country upbringing with a cosmopolitan edge to create lush, living installations for clients such as Givenchy, Paramount Pictures, Bulgari, and L’Oréal.
On Twitter: @LMDfloral
Photo: Courtesy of Lewis Miller
Moët Hennessey and 'Wallpaper' Magazine Dinner by Lewis Miller
"This corporate dinner needed to merge two very different companies: the lavish aspect of Moët Hennessey and the modern, urban edge of Wallpaper magazine. We played with contrast and scale by creating a floating garden overhead while the actual surface of the table was merely a strict double row of square glass votive candles." —Lewis Miller
Photo: Gustavo Campos Photography
Karla Dascal
Karla Conceptual Event Experiences
In 1992, after earning her degree in architecture and design, Dascal opened a floral import and delivery service. As demand for her sculptural arrangements grew, she expanded her services into event design with a full-service, Miami-based venture. Dascal is known for creating architecturally minded looks for clients such as Bulgari, Chopard, Merrill Lynch, and Valentino.
On Twitter: @karladascal
In 1992, after earning her degree in architecture and design, Dascal opened a floral import and delivery service. As demand for her sculptural arrangements grew, she expanded her services into event design with a full-service, Miami-based venture. Dascal is known for creating architecturally minded looks for clients such as Bulgari, Chopard, Merrill Lynch, and Valentino.
On Twitter: @karladascal
Photo: Sonja Garnitschnig
Private Event by Karla Dascal
"The most challenging aspect of producing this wedding was bringing in 10,000 hydrangeas from South America. It was virtually impossible to get our desired breed of hydrangea in the color palette and quantity needed for the wedding, but we love making the impossible possible." —Karla Dascal
Photo: Carlos Baez
Edgardo Zamora
Revelry Event Designers
Based in Los Angeles, Argentinian-born Zamora travels everywhere from Italy to Hawaii to design made-to-order looks for roughly 350 events a year, including corporate galas for clients like Gucci and Subaru, movie premieres and screenings, award productions like last year’s Dream Foundation event, and social events.
On Twitter: @RevelryDesign
Based in Los Angeles, Argentinian-born Zamora travels everywhere from Italy to Hawaii to design made-to-order looks for roughly 350 events a year, including corporate galas for clients like Gucci and Subaru, movie premieres and screenings, award productions like last year’s Dream Foundation event, and social events.
On Twitter: @RevelryDesign
Photo: Courtesy of Revelry Event Designers
Private Event by Edgardo Zamora
"Geller Events turned to us to create a barn-style setting in a tent. We designed a dance floor area with a peaked ceiling using fabric and reclaimed wood beams. A drop-ceiling arbor over the dining area was covered with foliage and accented with wooden lanterns. Hand-painted hardwood floors helped set the stage of permanence for this temporary structure." —Edgardo Zamora
Photo: Nadine Froger Photography
Andrew Stevens & Kim Swift
We Came in Peace
Stevens and Swift co-founded their creative agency in 2009, specializing in witty, immersive environments for brands. Combining set design, visual merchandising, custom installations, and interior design, the duo has created quirky, sometimes tongue-in-cheek experiences for clients such as Microsoft, Porsche, Zappos, and Sheraton.
On Twitter: @WeCameInPeace
Stevens and Swift co-founded their creative agency in 2009, specializing in witty, immersive environments for brands. Combining set design, visual merchandising, custom installations, and interior design, the duo has created quirky, sometimes tongue-in-cheek experiences for clients such as Microsoft, Porsche, Zappos, and Sheraton.
On Twitter: @WeCameInPeace
Photo: Daniel Cavazos
Sheraton Wine Tasting by Andrew Stevens and Kim Swift
“We wanted to bring the Reidel brand to life organically with this centerpiece chandelier of 125 champagne flutes, each filled with a tinted resin and a ‘foam’ of micro glass beads.” —Andrew Stevens
Photo: Gregory Holm
Matthew Parker
Matthew Parker Events
Through his Seattle design studio, Parker specializes in handmade event decor that has the feel of a modern art installation. With influences from geometry and typography to origami and pop art, Parker uses materials such as paper, cardboard, and plastic straws.
Through his Seattle design studio, Parker specializes in handmade event decor that has the feel of a modern art installation. With influences from geometry and typography to origami and pop art, Parker uses materials such as paper, cardboard, and plastic straws.
Photo: Cleary O'Farrell
Wedding Preview Event by Matthew Parker
"I wanted the entrance to this indie wedding show in Seattle to have the maximum amount of wow factor but be totally familiar in its materials." —Matthew Parker
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Parker
Antony Todd
Antony Todd Inc.
Todd founded his New York-based company in 1995 and has designed events for the likes of Condé Nast, the New York City Ballet, Elton John, and L’Oréal. His “less is more” design philosophy translates to a clean, classic aesthetic with a global spin. In addition to designing about 30 events a year, Todd also runs a retail furniture and home accessories line.
On Twitter: @antonytodd
Todd founded his New York-based company in 1995 and has designed events for the likes of Condé Nast, the New York City Ballet, Elton John, and L’Oréal. His “less is more” design philosophy translates to a clean, classic aesthetic with a global spin. In addition to designing about 30 events a year, Todd also runs a retail furniture and home accessories line.
On Twitter: @antonytodd
Photo: Courtesy of Antony Todd
"Ocean Kingdom" Dinner by Antony Todd
"The fluid silks lining the ceiling, puddles of votives above the dance floor, and water pools on the tabletops instead of flowers created a watery, underwater, ethereal setting." —Antony Todd
Photo: Courtesy of Antony Todd
Design Agency built a whimsical setting filled with neon lights and mirrors. The goal of the installation, according to a company rep, was to let diners "experience many other angles of each other."
Photo: Ryan Emberley
Ball Pit Lounge
Each year organizers create a variety of lounges where attendees can watch a simulcast of speakers. New this year was a ball pit filled with beanbag chairs and beach balls.
Photo: Ryan Lash/TED
