Many clients are unaware that FOS Decor Center was actually founded on entertainment. Our name, “FOS”, is a nod of recognition to “Freedom of Sound”, the DJ and entertainment production group from which our successful event decor business was born. With a proven track record for designing and producing “Wow Factor” events, FOS’s new entertainment division will provide a sophisticated and vibrant enhancement to any event.

Our high-energy entertainment services include:

• DJs/MCs
• Live Bands
• Solo and Group Performances
• Lighting and Sound Equipment
• Stage Designs
• Special Effects
• And Much More…

We’re thrilled to have been encouraged to re-introduce music and entertainment into our company mission, and look forward to offering each and every client an unforgettable experience.

Our concept was influenced by the high expectations of today’s modern bride in having the “perfect wedding”. We incorporated a natural vintage setting with modern elements to define the concept. Our location was selected based on its natural picturesque environment, which allowed us to work with Dark tones and vibrant accent colours. The main element of having Brides in reconstructed dresses was inspired to showcase the desire to gravitate towards the perfect wedding.

The mirrored table top from our Manhattan collection reflected the vibrant colours and crystals of the antique style centerpiece, while contemporary Kartell Victorian Chairs inspired by the 18th century design demonstrate true essence of modernized design.

Elegant floral design incorporated pink and deep purple hydrangeas, mix of posh pink and silverstone roses, and a touch of purple Phalaenopsis Orchids created cascading effect.

Incorporating a bird in each of the models hair design symbolized the idea of freedom; each bride is free to do what she wishes.  Make up was vintage and chic; made to represent the fierceness that brides possess when planning their dream wedding design. The use of hanging jewelry and double wrap necklaces around wrist was an elegant accent to the brides wardrobe and exemplifies that no matter what a bride goes through each bride is unique and beautiful.

We would like to thank the following people for taking part in this Whimsical photo shoot:

Mike Fantuzzi ~Grand Central Photography

Robert Amado (creative director), Antonella Palmieri, Maria Lombardo ~Amado Salon

Linda Penwarden ~Penwarden Jewelers

Michelle Raspo ~MVP Make Up Artistry

Patricia Drewnowska ~Patricia’s Cakes

As a Full Service Event Decor and Production company offering a wide variety of services, we understand the challenges facing many corporate clients to create unique events on budget, especially in these uncertain economic times. That’s why as the Event Design Manager here, I can tell you first-hand that producing Award Winning Events requires many hours of dedication and hard-work. I spend countless hours coming up with ideas and than even more countless hours figuring out how to execute those ideas. It’s the challenge that gets me up every day and motivates me to continue doing what I love to do.

Corporate clients always present a unique challenge, because each event is dynamic. Each project is different and represents new and unique obstacles that require quick thinking and fast solutions. Some of these obstacles may include short setup times or tight budgets, but that’s what makes it interesting. You must be able to think quickly to make sure that no matter what happens, the job gets executed flawlessly. One of my biggest challenges was flipping the Canadian Ballroom at the Royal York Hotel from a 900 person Shareholders Meeting into a fully designed cocktail reception for 1200 people; in 2.5hours. A challenge such as this requires months of planning and co-ordinating. So you would think. However, we were given the go ahead for this project only 2 weeks prior, making it an even bigger challenge.

I have to say that regardless of all the hard work, I’m excited for this upcoming corporate season. When asked what events I enjoy most. Corporate Events? or Social Events? My answer is: The process with corporate may be longer and may involve more detail, but the adrenaline rush of having to think quickly and creatively is what makes corporate season a lot of fun. I encourage all of our readers to visit our online Corporate Gallery and take a look at some of our previous projects. I look forward to this corporate holiday season as we have many unique projects coming up that will continue to add to our long list of successful events.

If anyone has any questions or comments about this blog, please do not hesitate to email me:Raviv@fos.ca

Elite Restaurant & Banquet Hall - Before the FOS transformation

Miki took the couple’s vision and streamlined a modern concept and decor scheme that literally lit up the Elite Restaurant & Banquet Hall. With the hall packed to capacity with 120 people for the Engagement Party it was important to keep the design minimal, but transformative.

To achieve the desired effect, Miki coated the room in white sheer drapery, and then colour-washed every inch with ultraviolet hues using the FOS LED colourwash lighting system. As you can see from the photos, the result was breathtaking.

Elite Restaurant & Banquet Hall - Transformed by FOS Creative Director Miki Klevan for Gary and Valerie's Engagement Party

Guests were seated on Philippe Starck Ghost Chairs at acrylic tables that were lit up from the base and covered with thin see-through ivory striped overlays. The tables were finished with small floral arrangements in mirrored boxes and crystal centrepieces at staggered heights topped with lit candles.

Table Decor

In addition to transforming the Hall into a UV paradise, it was also important to work in key hospitality features for the Russian couple’s celebration. The outstanding seafood feast, prepared by a well-known Russian chef, was presented on a bold nautical-themed table arrangement that popped against the modern UV setting. FOS also arranged for beluga caviar to be served from custom ice-dish sculptures, and a flow of Grey Goose Vodka wound all night long through an ice-encased luge positioned between two bottles of Grey Goose kept chilled in embossed ice blocks.

Seafood Feast

Beluga Caviar and Grey Goose Vodka Ice Presentations

The event was another proud accomplishment for Miki Klevan and the FOS team, and Gary and Valerie were a deserving couple, whose vision and style was a fun twist on modern elegance. FOS Decor Centre would like to congratulate Gary and Valerie on their engagement, and we look forward to designing and producing the couple’s wedding next summer.

Design is not just a final product of creativity. Design is an avenue of life. Being an event designer at the country’s leading décor firm is a privilege. Many people resent their job; however, I flourish and excel with dedication and enthusiasm. I was trained in colour theory, space planning, and aesthetic design/decor at the country’s top design school, and I constantly push myself to learn more in my chosen career path.

This constant push is a true testament of my character. I don’t create “cookie cutter” designs. I constantly explore new and innovative designs to leave clients in awe, and with a smile that reads “complete security and validation”.

Colour, form, shape and size are just a few things I think about while making sure the client’s theme is highlighted. Any design style, from contemporary to traditional to minimal, presents a new challenge that I’m always excited to knock out of the park.

Design can be anything; there’s no right or wrong. Design is an art form, and art is very subjective. That’s what I love about this career: I am afforded the luxury to be an artist. And my client is my muse.

Every time a client walks into our showroom to meet with me, I immediately gather their vision. Together, we conceptualize a theme and break down décor ideas. I like to build relationships of mutual respect with every client because we work together for months at a time planning their big day. This relationship is a light in my mind that never shuts off, because my clients expect the best and that is what I always give them. I’m very interactive with my clients, and make a point to always keep us on the same page, as this is their event, and I am the one entrusted to fulfill the design promise and execution. The process is a journey we embark on together, and I need my partner completely on board for us to set sail

Whether I’m designing a dream wedding or a Fortune 500 company’s annual corporate party, I like to add a personal charm and reflection of the client that is almost impossible to duplicate. Incorporating my creative ideas with the client’s personality under the event theme lets me pull off the perfect design.

Creating a special milestone occasion for my client adds a chapter to their life novel, and it’s always such an honour to be a character involved. Like every designer in the industry, I have just one day to truly make my client blissfully happy. I give them reassurance, I give them a flawless design, and I give them the start to the next chapter in their life novels. A smile from my client is the only gesture I need to continue my day.

I believe every bride that walks into our showroom doors should have their own unique event. As we say here at FOS Décor, we never repeat the exact same design more than once. Every client that I meet with has a vision before they even walk into their meeting.  My job is to take that vision and add design elements to enhance it. It’s a process;  I begin with what the overall look the client is trying to achieve; traditional, modern, contemporary with a  twist of tradition etc,  and then build it up like storybook; starting with Bridal bouquets leading to ceremony, then reception design. I like to keep my clients flowing with the concept and at times visioning every detail. Consultation meetings are very detail as I physically create the exact table design in our showroom, using linens, plates, centerpieces, napkins etc.

Below are some pictures of of the the designs I have created. One of the biggest compliments was being asked to design a feature for Elegant Wedding magazine.

Sonia’s Design Elements:

I love the use of designing with different shapes and heights. I always tell my clients, it’s good to be different; you give your guests something to talk about and remember.  Picture walking into a room where all the centerpieces are the exact same height, and design…….Now picture walking into a room where centerpiece are different heights, different flowers, etc.  This adds drama and texture to the room.  I love alternating linens and napkins and lots of crystal embellishments.

I love working with bold colours. Some clients get the interpretation that if you go bold flowers you should  settle on the rest of the décor such as linens napkins etc. That is not always true. Using bold colors in your centerpiece flowers looks elegant with a simple bold linen and napkin that accents the colours in the flowers. The room will pop with shades of colours and provide texture to the room with a mixture of different flower types. Please view below for Michelle and Trevor’s beautiful fall Wedding that I designed.

What inspires Sonia

I love what I do. I wake up every morning looking forward into stepping through the doors at FOS Décor and meet with clients.  For those that know me, I am always researching new design concepts, whether it be reading a bridal magazine in my car, browsing the internet or going on a hunt to  the closest book store for Preston Baileys New book, my mind is constantly in over drive.

Every one of my clients holds a special bond with me. I am consistently in contact with them whether it is through a meeting, phone conference, email or sometimes coffee they are all very important.  Truly think about it, I have 1 day to transform their vision for something they have been planning since they were little.  There is a lot of pressure on a designer but it keeps me going to push harder. I don’t have room for error. Our team at FOS Décor is truly amazing at the execution of events. I know that as soon as I bring my Bride and Groom into their reception to see the transformation, just their facial expression says it all. All that hard work was well worth it for that instant smile that will last a lifetime.

Special events are out-of-the ordinary occasions that call for, well, something special. And what’s more special than home? This Fall season, event decor is taking cues from the functionality and liveability of home-bred interior design. Overstuffed arm chairs, lounge furniture, area rugs and other homey touches are being used creatively to give events a personal charm that’s almost impossible to duplicate. And if done right, home-inspired decor still retains the luxurious feel of the finest crystals and silks that are too precious to keep in your home. Rustic, comfortable, tried-and-true, your home is a treasure chest of inspiration for a fun, classy party. Here’s how we make it work:

-          Marc Contardi (FOS Event Designer)

Mix-and-Match tables: Mixing table sizes is a hot event decor trend that’s got a lot going for it. Instead of making every table a 10-seater, make some of them 8-seaters, 5-seaters, 12-seaters, etc. You can also vary your table shapes for an original effect. Don’t worry, the table settings and room decor will bring it all together to look designed, and not thrown together.

-          Sonia Rinaldi (FOS Event Designer)

Contemporary seating: Traditional dining chairs are taking a backseat to your father’s favourite couch this Fall season. Renting home furniture, like lounge couches and loveseats, gives guests a comfortable meal, and so much to talk about. It’s relaxing, homey, and a unique way of bringing guests together to enjoy the occasion.

-          Sonia Rinaldi (FOS Event Designer)

Vintage is back: But it’s back in a “now” sort of way. Mixing vintage and contemporary design is a bold decor statement. Pairing contemporary fabrics with vintage props, like sculptured vases, slightly tarnished abras or clawfoot tables and chairs creates a whimsical atmosphere that makes everyone, young and old, feel comfortable and hip.

-          Marc Contardi (FOS Event Designer)

Colour: Incorporating different colours is tricky, but when done right can really make an event blossom. Taking a bold stand with colour choices shows you’ve got spunk, and that all-important design trait – style! If your event colour scheme is purple and silver, orange and white flowers will bring life to the scene. Many people fear colour, and with good reason; the wrong colour spread around your event like a cold can destroy the appeal. Each and every colour chosen for an event should have a purpose, and should be purposefully placed.

-          Marc Contardi (FOS Event Designer)

Fall 2011 Trends brought you by:

Marc Contardi

(FOS Event Designer)

Sonia Rinaldi

(FOS Event Desinger)

Wedding flipping isn’t a common request, but Raviv, our Event Design Manager, designed and oversaw a seamlessly transition that kept the cohesive fairy-tale style the couple dreamed of.

The entire venue was draped in sheer Candlelight fabric that focused attention on the platform where the couple said “I do”. The guests were seated on transparent Louis Ghost Chairs as Stephanie walked down a custom aisle runner lined on both sides with dozens of lit candles encased in glass vases, and six mirrored pedestals topped with impressive crystal candelabras supporting equally impressive floral arrangements.

There was only an hour between the ceremony and the reception for the FOS team to transform the space into a reception and dining hall. First we erected massive canopies out of Gold, Candlelight and Ivory drapes. Inside each canopy was a long rectangular dining table with a large rectangle acrylic centrepiece supporting a fresh floral arrangement dripping with whimsical crystals that hung at differing heights. A custom dance floor was also laid down bearing the bride and groom’s initials.

The dining tables were wrapped in Candlelight Glow linens for colour, and Victoria’s Secret overlays for texture. The main dining space had four Manhattan dining tables with sofa-seating and low floral arrangements, as well as a number of round dining tables with raised floral arrangements from which more crystal threads dangled at different heights. The bridal party table was highlighted with a custom floral chandelier hanging right above the bride and groom, and a custom fabric canopy gathered at the centre and secured with flower bouquets. Before guests returned for the reception, the fabric in the room was illuminated by a complete colour wash system designed by FOS that gave the room a warm purple ambiance.

Overall it was a magical night we were proud to create for Stephanie and Steve.  We encourage you all to take a look at the pictures of the set-up in our website photo gallery, and on our Facebook page.

On April 13 our second annual Open House extravaganza welcomed hundreds of FOS clients, friends and affiliates through the doors of our brand new location at 160 Confederation Parkway in Vaughan. As they entered, guests were greeted with glasses of champagne with Fresh Seasonal Berries and a Rockstar! Photobooth to set the mood for a fun Tim Burton inspired themed. Our new 3500sq.ft showroom space was decorated playfully with whimsical coloured trees hanging upside down, and models in destroyed wedding gowns with dark makeup by MVR Makeup Artistry and crazy hair by HAIR by Moses moved among the crowd. Magnolia Event Catering served up sugar-rimmed mixed drinks, and servers offered a steady selection of creative hors d’oeuvres to prime appetites for an unveiling of our extravagant dessert bar with dozens of treats (including decadent chocolate-dipped cheesecake bites).

As if the dark and whimsically dressed Soul In Motion troupe that danced on podiums and bar-tops wasn’t enough, we also had a pair of award-winning aerial dancers from A2 D2 perform on a hoop suspended from the ceiling, and magician Mike D’Urzo mesmerized small groups with his magic throughout the evening. Of course, what Tim Burton-inspired party would be complete without creatively streaming Tim Burton films on our Contemporary DJ Booth; compiled by The Visual Element Video Production.

We hope our guests had as much fun at the event as we had creating it! We’d like to thank the following sponsors for helping us make Euphoria a huge success, and we look forward to next year’s Euphoria, where things will only get crazier.

Royal Coupon

The Magnolia Event Catering

Event Rental Group

Rockstar! Photobooths

DJ Mike O

Espresso Blu

The Visual Element Video Productions

Dance Floor Decor

Mike D’Urzo of MegaMagic

A2D2 Aerial Dance Cirque Company

Grand Central Studios

MVR Makeup Artistry

Soul in Motion Dance Arts Academy Inc

Private Label by G

Andrew’s Formals Rentals and Sales

HAIR by Moses

Cristina Paniccia make-up artistry

Peter & Paul’s gifts, baskets, and promos

Check out some fun shots of EUPHORIA…

Team FOS

A2D2 Aerial Dance Cirque Company

The Magnolia Event Catering

For More picture from the night visit our facebook fan page!

FOS has been looking forward to April for a long time! This month we’ll be holding our second annual Open House, and moving to a new facility. We also sponsored last week’s Reel Film Pictures Gala in support of local arts and culture, and are still giddy over last month’s design accolades.

We’d like to re-congratulate our team for an outstanding job in sponsoring the Canadian Special Events Expo last month. At the Expo FOS was nominated for three Canadian Special Events Star Awards, and won for Best Theme Decor $15,000-$40,000. We’d also like to commend our Design Manager Raviv for his excellent seminar presentation on Decor and Lighting.

Miki’s acceptance speech at the CSEME

In other event news, on April 1^st FOS sponsored and designed the Reel Film Pictures Presents: A Grand Social Red Carpet Premiere. It may have been April Fool’s Day but the red carpet affair was no joke. We dressed The Venetian Banquet Hall in 50’s and 60’s Hollywood glamour, and guests rocked the big-movie-premiere vibe in support of arts and culture in Vaughan.

In the wake of the Reel Film Pictures event we’ll be celebrating a premiere of our own: our second annual Open House will premiere both our new sister-company, and our new company location!

FOS will soon be moving around the corner and taking over the entire building complex at 160 Confederation Parkway to accommodate our growing clientele and new sister-company, Royal Coupon. Guests will have exclusive access to a large parking lot, our showroom will be bigger and better than ever, and our lobby and offices will enjoy a spacious upgrade.

With these exciting changes in our life this year’s Open House will be a euphoric celebration of our past and future, and a hearty welcoming of Royal Coupon to the FOS family. If you attended last year’s Masquerade Open House you know we throw a kickass party. We can’t say much more, but trust us, it’s gonna be wacked!