Today we’d like to introduce you to Felicia Luca.
Hi Felicia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Since getting married many years ago, I’ve organized fun and memorable gatherings for family and friends, always with a focus on creative themes. This enthusiasm also led me to volunteer to plan and host school and men’s gymnastics events while dedicating time to helping seniors in assisted living facilities create small crafts.
At the youthful age of 54, I re-entered the workforce part-time as a product demonstrator and then a health fairs host, that led to the position of sales coordinator for health and wellness events for companies across different industries. Soon after, I launched a new company division connecting brands to consumers and employees through immersive events, decor, and a podcast, which led me to discover my true passion: professional event planning with a focus on themes and decor.
That position proved to be a driving force that influenced and motivated me to be where I am today. I am the proud owner and stylist of Lifestyle Event Designs, a boutique company specializing in a unique one-of-a-kind rental decor featuring my crown jewel, the “Goddess-Inspired Floral Mannequin Collection.” My designs, such as the Francesca Branch and Non-Edible Cake Series, are pushing the boundaries of weddings, special occasions, and corporate events. They seamlessly blend fashion, art, various types of florals (fresh, dried, faux), and stone, all with sustainability in mind. I take much delight in observing the happiness my creations bring to event attendees. Guests often pause, smile, touch, and seize photo opportunities.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I believe that one’s life is never really a smooth path, and it’s the twists and turns that make it truly exciting. Embracing the challenges and surprises every day adds depth and color to our journey. I personally find reasons to smile a few times a day, and I think that helps me move forward with positivity.
Chapters in my life have certainly had their share of challenges, some of which have been quite significant. One of the most pivotal struggles I faced was overcoming a brain tumor, an experience that profoundly shaped my path to where I am today. This ordeal not only tested my resilience but also inspired me to leave the corporate realm of health and wellness events, take the entrepreneurial path, and pursue my true passion in the event decorating industry.
Transitioning from event planning and hosting, which didn’t directly relate to weddings and the special occasion sector, was another hurdle to overcome. Establishing credibility in this industry was a hard task, as I needed to prove that my unique designs, particularly my enchanting floral mannequins, were the perfect fit for weddings and special events. Convincing others to see the value and beauty in my creations has been an ongoing endeavor, and I do it with confidence, knowing smiles will be plentiful.
Additionally, managing every aspect of my business as a one-person operation has presented its own set of difficulties. Though demanding, it continues to keep me on my toes with every detail, ensuring the quality and personal touch that define my work. My determination to continue success in the wedding and special occasion event industry inspires me to deliver exceptional decor to my clients.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m passionate about creating enchanting and mesmerizing decor that leaves a lasting impression and of course create fantastic photo opportunities. A particular design collection that truly sets me apart from other designers is my enchanting Goddess-Inspired Floral Mannequin Collection which serves as the crown jewel of my event decor. These captivating pieces are meticulously crafted, combining florals, beads, stones, shells, and upcycled materials. When featured at any event, they create an ambiance no other decor can achieve always sparking conversations
One aspect I take immense pride in is the customizability of my rental designs. I love working closely with clients to incorporate their chosen theme colors, ensuring that every piece seamlessly aligns with their party’s aesthetic. What’s more, I enjoy adding fresh flowers or unexpected elements like lemons to my decor, which never fail to surprise and delight guests, often prompting them to stop and touch that piece to see if something is real. This commitment to creating immersive experiences is something I hold dear and is a hallmark of my work in the event industry. I do have a signature statement located on all of my designs. You’ll consistently find one or two birds adorning each of my creations, a heartfelt tribute to the species I hold dear to my heart.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
In the next five-ten years, I envision the event industry, specifically weddings and special occasions, moving toward more immersive gatherings, creating unforgettable experiences. Larger than life displays will amaze at these events, and maybe we’ll be entertained by highlights from Broadway or Las Vegas performers, suitable for family audiences. I actually hired very elegant Salsa dancers and drummers to perform at my daughter and son-in-law’s wedding reception, and to this day, people still talk about this highlight of that night.
For decor stylists, the emphasis on sustainability, with eco-friendly practices will most likely become a standard in their decor visions to reduce environmental impact. I also still see fresh flowers as the first choice at all types of social occasions. Who doesn’t love a beautiful bloom!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lifestyleeventdesigns.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifestyle_ed/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lifestyleeventdesigns
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicia-luca-ab1b44180/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lifestylee_d
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/LifestyleEventDesigns/
Image Credits
Felicia Luca
