Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

IT TAKES sheer talent to transform ordinary get-togethers into something spectacular and worth remembering. It takes luck to make it big in an industry where the weak gets trampled on. Fortunately for Jerry Sibal, he has both... and more.

"I arrived in this country with only $300 and a suitcase full of faith," Jerry said in his speech, during the US launch of his book at the world-famous Cipriani’s Wall Street last November, as hundreds of his friends and clients gathered to celebrate the momentous event with him.

Armed with the talent he had and the hard work and discipline instilled in him by his parents Jose and Valentina, Sibal conquered the odds and created his own personal journey to success. How he came to the United States as a Filipino immigrant to become one of today’s top event designers in America is no mean feat.

Jerry works really hard in every event that they stage. He gets a kick out of getting those creative juices flowing, getting input from his clients on what they want and executing them with such élan.

"I tell the clients that sometimes, less is more. I’m here to create not only your vision, but also to balance things for you," he says. Those who have had a glimpse of his work, however, may note that the artist is entirely too humble, for indeed, Sibal’s creations bear the mark of true originality and artistry.

Jerry’s events offer a cornucopia of arresting images and installations that transport guests into a different, more beautiful universe. Just last month, he led the relaunch of the redesigned Trianon and Mercury Ballrooms of Hilton New York, with a look inspired by a retro 1960s pop art design concept with a modern twist.

Right before the In Vogue grand event, Jerry sat down with us for a chat. He tells us that among all the work he has done for various companies and individuals, he is particularly proud of the time he created settings for 22 casinos, covering a number of cities in America.

He is also pleased with the work he did for Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Atlantic in Chicago. "What I like about him is his simplicity. He is so down to earth, simple and humble," Jerry says.

Jerry professes gratitude for the rare opportunity given to him by the international book publishing company Stewart, Tabori & Chang, a division of Harry Abrams, Inc. of New York to create an inspirational high-end coffee table book containing 200 colored photographs of his works in prominent venues and events.

"I am not an author, though. I’d rather design," Jerry says between laughs.

In his sought-after book, the New York-based events designer reveals how he fills any space with the most unique special touches, the most spectacular flowers and the most creative designs.