A chat with founder, events entrepreneur, Nikki Glekas
My first restaurant opened in 2008 and I designed every inch of it myself. It was an instant success and soon after I opened my first event locations under the Nikki Glekas Events umbrella. My company grew again when my exclusive partnership with Chelsea Piers started in 2016.
During COVID I used my downtime to rebrand to Nikki Glekas Collective to better reflect all that my world offers now. My work with Chelsea Piers continues to thrive, I cater many on-location events throughout the tri-state area each year, and I also have my own lifestyle show on YouTube called Nikki’s Modern Mediterranean.
I’ve been designing parties my whole life. My very first was my sweet 16 party growing up in Pennsylvania. I designed the whole thing from scratch and loved every second. That is when I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life creating unforgettable events for as many people as possible.
What do you consider your design style?
I like to design events that are bold, elegant and fresh. If you look at my events portfolio you’ll see that no two events look the same. I always work with my clients to understand their needs and their taste. Then I conjure a vision in my head and make it all come to life. I love it when they walk into a room and their eyes light up when they see their vision has been made real! For smaller events and tables I make sure a table is visually exciting with lots of fresh color and patterns.
When designing your tablescape for the LOOK Holiday Design Luncheon, what was your inspiration?
There is a subtle nod to Greece in this holiday tablescape. Even though it can be hard to sell the beach as a Christmas design-them, I used green geometric shapes and lots of feathery greens that are reminiscent of the Mediterranean. Then I added green patterned linens, geometric candles, and light gold touches. I love how it feels natural, yet elegant. It’s a nice way to set a Christmas table for a festive, fun evening.
Who would you invite as guests to this table?
Guests who love to eat!! My husband and I always want as many people as possible at our home. Once my guest list is created I dive into the table design and menu planning. I always think of what would appeal to the people we are inviting from a signature cocktail to a showstopper dessert, and everything in between. If you want to come to our home for dinner, consider yourself invited!
Fairfield County LOOK holiday table design Luncheon presented by Farrow & Ball
