Event planner Raul Ávila is tasked each year with transforming the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the annual Met Gala. Each event brings a unique adventure – from flamboyant floral centerpieces to elaborate table settings. In past years, he has created towering chandeliers, lit grand staircases with candles, and filled birdcages with live peacocks. The attention to detail and creativity in his designs have made each gala a truly memorable experience for attendees.
For the 2023 Met Gala, the theme of “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty” was honored with decor inspired by the Chanel creative director. The Temple of Dendur was transformed to resemble Lagerfeld’s home library, while tablescapes echoed the aesthetic of his famous wedding reception for Paloma Picasso. Each detail was carefully curated to pay homage to Lagerfeld’s legendary style and flair for hosting elegant events.
In 2022, the theme of “In America: An Anthology of Fashion” showcased a range of vintage motifs and American textile art in the table settings. Guests dined on plates adorned with designs sourced by Johnson Hartig of Libertine, while linens based on the embroidery of Elizabeth Jeffries added a unique touch to the tablescapes. The attention to detail in the decor reflected the rich history of American fashion.
The 2019 Met Gala, themed “Camp: Notes on Fashion,” featured a 25-foot tall flamingo centerpiece made of 30,000 flowers, showcasing the extravagant and exaggerated nature of camp style. The decor in the Great Hall perfectly captured the essence of camp with vibrant colors, bold designs, and whimsical elements. Each aspect of the decor reflected the playful and over-the-top spirit of the theme.
For the 2018 Met Gala, themed “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” Ávila designed a stunning papal crown centerpiece with 80,000 roses. The elaborate floral arrangement paid tribute to the iconic headpiece worn by the Pope, creating a dramatic focal point for the event. The attention to detail and craftsmanship in the design captured the ethereal and sacred elements of the theme.
From themed centerpieces to elaborate table settings, Raul Ávila’s designs for the Met Gala have consistently wowed guests and captured the essence of each year’s theme. His attention to detail, creativity, and ability to transform a space into a fantastical setting have made him a highly sought-after event planner. As each year brings a new theme and a new challenge, Ávila continues to push the boundaries of event design and create immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression on attendees.
