When it comes to corporate holiday events in 2024, planners are pushing the boundaries of innovation with designs that blend luxurious aesthetics with interactive elements, tech-forward approaches, and a nod to nostalgia. These creative professionals aren’t just setting the stage—they’re building unforgettable experiences that transform event spaces into magical, immersive environments. Here’s what some of Canada’s top planners and event experts are obsessed with for 2024, from lush florals to cutting-edge tech and everything in between.
According to Emma Singh, Founder and Creative Director at Emma Singh Creative, rich colours with shiny metallic accents are leading the way for luxurious event looks this year. “Jewel tones, gold and silver accents, and textures like velvet and silk aim to make every guest feel like a VIP.” Emma loves using huge rental inflatable balls in various shapes and colours as a dynamic focal point in event decor, adding an exciting punch to designs.
This focus on maximalism is shared by Rebecca Chan, Owner and Creative Director of Rebecca Chan Events Inc., who says, “Think jewel tones mixed with metallics and over-the-top textures and patterns.” Similarly, Julia Livia and Samantha Kostopoulos from RISE Event Planning are also excited about incorporating bold colours, patterns, and live elements into event decor. “Moving away from all-white, minimalist setups, we’re embracing vibrant pops of colour and luxe textures. Mixing unexpected tones like stripes and patterns with metals and jewel tones creates a rich, layered look”.
Michelle Nicol from Element Event Solutions could not agree more and adds that the rise of maximalism is undeniable. Vibrant linens, patterned plates, and coloured glassware are creating dynamic tablescapes everywhere. Brass accents, particularly in furniture and decor, add warmth and sophistication.
When it comes to furniture, Grail Noble, CEO of Yellow House Events, highlights the need to move away from the decor that looks like typical event furniture. “Less white vinyl and plexi, and more high-end fabrics and innovative floral uses. At Coachella this year, we saw living walls and florals, like the Adidas activation with Bad Bunny. Florals and plants will remain hot for the holidays.”
This rings true for Craig Gruzd, Account Manager at Luxe Modern Rentals, who encourages clients to opt for less traditional white decor. “Embrace vibrant colours and infuse your brand into the design elements. Distinctive modular lounge areas with bold accents, custom-branded tabletops, backdrops, and pillows are key to creating visually exciting event spaces.” Craig is on point with Emma and Rebecca that colour is key in 2024.
Vivian Luc at Vancouver’s Bespoke Decor is also seeing modern and playful designs rise. “Imagine spaces filled with bright hues that bring a fresh, cheerful vibe to the season. This trend is all about joyful energy, creating a fun and uplifting atmosphere. Also on the radar for Bespoke is Apres-Ski, with faux fur throws, rustic wooden accents, and earthy tones that bring the comfort of a mountain retreat to life. Vivian adds, “Neutral never goes out of style, even for the holidays. If you’re hoping to go for an understated holiday vibe, this look will be your go-to style. Think minimalist, soft neutrals, like ivory and taupe, and throw in a little shimmer for some sparkle.
In Calgary, Shannon Collins, President & Owner of Chair Flair says that neutral, rustic, is becoming increasingly popular. “While traditional themes such as Winter Wonderland and Masquerade Ball remain popular, there is a noticeable shift towards more modern, neutral decor for holiday parties.” This trend reflects a desire for versatility, sophistication, and a more contemporary approach to event design. “We’re seeing a shift towards neutral decor with single-colour themes or monochromatic palettes. The use of metallic accents like silver, gold, and copper adds a touch of glamour while incorporating natural trees, twinkle lights, and lush textures like velvet and satin deepens the overall aesthetic. Think simple yet chic decor that focuses on quality over quantity.” Shannon adds that incorporating lighting into a neutral look takes everything to a whole new level. Imagine a room filled with lots of trees accented with thousands of twinkle lights and decor in natural palettes like Olive Green with Wood Accents. Through the use of textures like velvet, sequin, and satin, you can add texture and richness to this look. Add in metallic accents like Silver, Gold, and Copper to add a touch of glamour, and now you have a sophisticated, neutral yet glamorous holiday look.
Picking up on Shannon’s advice about lighting, Kriya Preisler, Owner and Lead Designer at Coven Creative in Calgary, believes the holiday spirit comes alive through the magic of lighting. She loves how twinkling lights and soft ambient glows create that warm, cozy atmosphere that makes the season feel so special. Whether it’s the flicker of candles, glowing strands, or elegant fixtures casting a soft glow, lighting enhances the festive mood, bringing people together and adding a touch of enchantment to every celebration. Kriya highlights how lighting can double as eye-catching decor, with statement pieces like life-sized pendant lights designed to mimic Christmas ornaments. “These oversized, glowing fixtures add a whimsical yet elegant touch, perfect for setting the holiday mood. Street light-inspired installations are also trending, bringing a festive outdoor vibe indoors.”
Valerie Sharpe from Element Event Solutions in Halifax emphasizes the importance of soft, warm lighting as a design essential. Whether it’s twinkling lights on an evergreen tree or a wall of candles, these touches instantly make any event feel more welcoming. She suggests using unexpected light sources, like Lincoln and Anthracite Battery-Operated lamps, to add warmth and create a cozy atmosphere around tables, bars, and lounges.
In Vancouver, twinkling lights and evergreen trees continue to be a hot topic. Corinne Kessel, Principal at Greenscape Design and Decor, notes that holiday parties in 2024 are all about nature-inspired, immersive environments and sustainable luxury. “We’re seeing a shift towards nature-inspired elegance with lush greenery, towering trees, and floral installations that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors. Biophilic design featuring fresh foliage, statement trees, and moss will transform spaces into serene yet festive environments. It’s all about bringing the calm of nature, with celebratory sparkle from lights and luxe details.”
Anita Carlyle, Owner/Managing Partner at Moore Carlyle Consulting, echoes Corinne’s sentiments about the requests for sustainable elements, adding that sustainable decor is essential. “Consider centrepieces that guests can take home, like potted poinsettias or small plantable evergreen seedlings.”
Raviv K, President of R5 Events, is an expert in creating a luxurious atmosphere with lush textures. His clients are seeking sophistication and chic supper club vibes for their 2024 holiday events. “Our clients want classy and trendy atmospheres with subtle lighting and prefer luxurious materials like velvet and gold. Themed events are becoming more sophisticated, with a focus on creating Instagrammable moments. Cheesy props are no longer in demand—people want their events to be refined yet fun.”
Steve Devine, COO at Divine Furniture Rental agrees with this trend, noting that rich black and gold furniture accents are timeless for the holiday season, adding, “Our raw wood products, like the Sydney line, are still in high demand, and must-have rental items include bars with built-in designs like our Geo bar line, available in black, white, and gold frames. The Gatsbyesque design trend remains popular, and we’ve seen many planners put a modern spin on this iconic look with florals and other unique decor elements.”
Immersion is EVERYTHING this year.
In the realm of event seating, Evan Aranoff, Co-President of Superior Events Group Inc. and Managing Partner at Luxe Modern Rentals, encourages planners to embrace long dining tables and move beyond the traditional rounds. Evan says using unique configurations like curved serpentines and, sleek transparent acrylic and luxurious marble tops adds instant glamour and spark to your event.
Creating impactful experiences is also vital for Evan. He recommends setting up photo opportunities that guests can’t resist. “Create Insta-worthy photo ops with eye-catching elements and optional costumed performers who can take pictures with guests. These photo moments will add to the event experience and extend the party’s reach as guests share their snaps on social media.” Photo stations never get old, and there are some pretty amazing booths on the market today, so planners can opt to surprise clients with innovative options.
Earlyn Joseph, Founder and Creative Director at Creative Event Solutions (CES), says it’s all about immersion. Immersive and interactive elements are a must-have for holiday party decor. “Augmented reality, themed rooms, interactive tablescapes, and personalized experiences are huge right now. Incorporating these kinds of elements turns the event from just a party into a full-fledged experience.”
Taking this a step further, Jennifer Rabanillo, Founder + Event Producer at StyleWorthy Studio, points out the importance of creating multi-sensory experiences for their clients. “Incorporating design, decor, and interactive elements that engage all the senses is key to a memorable event. Offering guests personalized luxury moments, like monogrammed keepsakes or curated experiences tailored to their preferences, leaves a lasting impact.” Rather than leaving with a traditional gift bag, attendees depart with a unique memory or item that reflects the thoughtfulness of the occasion.
Jennifer also suggests adding a wellness corner to an event to provide a calming space where guests can recharge and practice mindfulness amidst the festivities. “Offering elements like a meditation station, aromatherapy, or a guided breathing exercise allows attendees to relax, fostering a sense of well-being and balance. Embracing this trend not only shows thoughtfulness for guests’ mental and physical health but also creates a more holistic, rejuvenating event experience that guests will appreciate.”
Dionne Bishop, Founder and CEO of Events by Dionne couldn’t agree more. She says she offers her clients interactive photo booths: “Photo booths with elements like falling snow or bubbles make for a truly immersive experience, allowing guests to transport themselves to a traditional snowy landscape. Offering branded borders on printed keepsakes for different holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa is a great touch.”
From maximalist styles and sophisticated themes to biophilic designs and immersive experiences, 2024 holiday events are shaping up to be packed with bold, luxurious, and highly Instagrammable event decor trends. Our experts are pushing the boundaries to make every event unforgettable, setting the stage for creative, innovative, and breathtaking holiday celebrations.