As the excitement builds for the Academy Awards, many movie lovers are preparing to gather with friends and family to watch Hollywood’s biggest night unfold. While awards shows have always been a social experience, a well-designed Oscars viewing party can transform a simple evening of television into something truly memorable.
For internationally recognized event designer Edward Perotti, the magic of an Oscars party lies in the combination of glamour, anticipation, and shared excitement.
“Oscars viewing parties stand out because they bring together the excitement and glamour of Hollywood’s biggest awards show with the fun of watching live television together,” Perotti explains. “You’re reacting in real time to the results, celebrating your favorite films, and enjoying that shared energy with everyone in the room.”
A Passion Born from the Performing Arts
Edward Perotti’s passion for designing spectacular events began long before he became known for producing celebrations around the world. His inspiration came from an early love of the performing arts.
“My passion for event design and production stems from my love of live theater,” Perotti says. “The arts shaped my childhood and inspired me to create experiences that evoke emotion and bring people together in truly special moments.”
That theatrical mindset continues to influence how he approaches events today. Whether designing a private celebration or a large international gathering, Perotti focuses on storytelling, atmosphere, and the emotional connection guests feel throughout the experience.
Turning a Home Viewing Party into a Hollywood Experience
For hosts planning an Oscars viewing party at home, Edward Perotti believes that a few thoughtful details can instantly elevate the experience.
Encouraging guests to dress up sets the tone for the evening and adds a sense of excitement before the ceremony even begins. “When people arrive dressed for the occasion, it already feels like a celebration,” Perotti says.
Interactive activities also help keep guests engaged. Ballots where guests predict the winners can turn the evening into a friendly competition, while cheering—or groaning—at the results adds a fun sense of participation.
Perotti also recommends decorating and serving food inspired by the nominated films. A themed snack, drink, or playful reference to a movie can bring creativity to the party while celebrating the cinematic spirit of the night.
Creating Red Carpet Glamour on a Budget
Although Hollywood’s red carpet may appear extravagant, Perotti insists that hosts do not need to spend a fortune to capture the same spirit.
“You don’t need to spend a lot to create a glamorous red-carpet vibe,” he says. “Focus on thoughtful details and creative ideas.”
One of his favorite suggestions is creating a red carpet entrance using leftover carpet pieces from a local store. A simple photo backdrop made from fabric can give guests a place to pose for pictures, while inexpensive LED battery lights can instantly enhance the atmosphere.
Perotti also encourages hosts to look around their own homes or visit thrift stores for unique serving bowls, trays, and decorative items. “There are no strict rules,” he says. “Use your imagination and focus on creating a great atmosphere.”
The Details That Make Events Unforgettable
After producing thousands of events worldwide, Edward Perotti believes that the secret to unforgettable gatherings lies in creativity, attention to detail, and authenticity.
“What makes an event truly unforgettable for me and my brand is paying close attention to details, being creative, and trusting my own unique style,” he explains.
Personalized touches, thoughtful layouts, and smooth event flow show guests they are valued and help create a welcoming environment. Creative elements—unexpected décor, imaginative concepts, or surprising moments—add excitement that guests remember long after the event ends.
Most importantly, Perotti says, listening to clients and understanding their vision ensures that every event feels authentic and meaningful.
When the Venue Inspires the Vision
Having designed events in remarkable locations around the world—from historic landmarks to iconic cultural sites—Perotti often finds that the venue itself shapes the creative direction.
“The location of an event often kicks my creativity into high gear,” he says. “The building, its surroundings, and the overall feel of the place help ideas come to life.”
Whether working in a grand museum, an outdoor setting, a theater, or a hotel ballroom, the personality of the space influences everything from décor and theme to the way guests move and interact throughout the event.
Interactive Ideas to Keep Guests Engaged
Edward Perotti recommends several interactive ideas to keep Oscars viewing parties lively throughout the broadcast.
Oscar bingo or prediction ballots allow guests to compete by guessing the winners, with prizes for the most accurate predictions. Red carpet voting can add another layer of fun, inviting guests to vote on their favorite celebrity fashion looks or even award “best dressed” among attendees.
Photo booths with themed props encourage guests to capture fun, glamorous moments during the night. Trivia games about past Oscar winners or famous movie quotes can also provide entertainment during commercial breaks.
Some hosts even invite guests to deliver their own playful acceptance speeches, creating moments of laughter and creativity during the evening.
Hosting with Sustainability and Purpose
In recent years, Edward Perotti has also focused on incorporating sustainability and philanthropy into events whenever possible.
“It’s simple to make gatherings more eco-friendly with a few small changes,” Perotti says.
Reusable or compostable plates and utensils help reduce waste, while locally sourced food and beverages support nearby businesses. Digital invitations can replace paper, and recycling stations can encourage responsible habits among guests.
Perotti also encourages hosts to consider charitable elements when planning events. Supporting local vendors, highlighting nonprofit organizations, or donating leftover décor items such as flowers can add meaningful impact to a gathering.
Even small gestures, he says, can inspire guests to think more thoughtfully about giving back.
A Career Filled with Challenges and Rewards
After more than two decades in the event industry, Edward Perotti has experienced both challenging and unforgettable moments.
“There have been some tough situations,” he admits. “Once I had to change an entire color scheme from white to shades of blue just a day before an event. Another time, a well-known chef walked out hours before guests arrived.”
Despite those challenges, the rewarding moments far outweigh the difficulties.
“One time a client walked into the event space and said about me, ‘this boy was serious.’ She went back to her suite, changed her gown because she felt inspired, and later sent me a message and photo,” Perotti recalls. “That moment was priceless.”
For Perotti, the greatest reward is knowing that each event he creates is entirely unique. He has never repeated a design, ensuring every celebration reflects the individuality of the people it was created for.
The Future of Celebrations
Looking ahead, Edward Perotti sees several trends shaping the future of events and celebrations.
Personalization continues to grow in importance, with hosts seeking experiences that reflect their personalities and stories rather than generic themes. Sustainability is also becoming central to event design, with greater attention to reducing waste and using reusable materials.
Hybrid celebrations that include virtual elements are allowing guests from around the world to participate in gatherings remotely. At the same time, experiential features such as interactive stations, immersive décor, and live entertainment are becoming more popular.
Wellness is also influencing event planning, with healthier menus, alcohol-free beverage options, and quiet relaxation areas becoming more common.
Perhaps most importantly, Perotti notes a growing movement toward supporting local artists, small businesses, and community vendors when planning events.
For him, the future of celebrations will continue to blend creativity, intention, and meaningful human connection.
And whether the setting is a grand international venue or a cozy living room gathering for the Oscars, Edward Perotti believes the goal remains the same: creating moments that people will remember long after the party ends.