“Every event and every space has a different story. Designing is like poetry and as a designer, I want to tell a story with every design concept I create.” – Neon Briggs (Antiguan Stage Designer/ Event decorator)
“We design to make your event one of a kind” The motto of Briggs Designs has indeed done such in the awe striking creations produced at the many events they catered to in the six years of their existence. How is this done you may ask? Through the use of various fabrics and colours combined to create the right atmosphere for different events such as weddings, baby showers, fetes and official events to name a few under their repertoire.
The talent and owner behind this company is Neon Briggs, an Antiguan designer who indicates he began designing professionally after he was asked by a friend to help them with conceptualizing a design for an introductory cocktail for a national pageant. He explained a bit further that his innate passion for artistry and design was his reason for starting Briggs Designs.
He continued by saying “I realized the stark contrast that existed between the standard of the décor and ambiance of regional and international events and that of local events here in Antigua. Thereafter, I felt compelled to start my own events planning and designing company, with the goal of raising the standard of events here in Antigua and allowing locals to experience the ambiance that should be expected of high-profile events.”
The Designs
When questioned on his designs he eloquently states:
“Every event and every space has a different story. Designing is like poetry and as a designer, I want to tell a story with every design concept I create.”
With this we unlocked a world in which designs are brought to life through keen research and allowing inspiration to be found in even the simplest pleasures of life such as nature. He indicates that “designing is the essence of creating something unique.”
However he did admit to there being challenges when dealing with his craft. Some of these challenges included acceptance as it is a fairly new craft to the local market and the value for service. There is also the aspect of sourcing materials, as at times the quantity demand may not be found on island limiting some components needed within designs. Though these downsides were expressed, the positive side to designing brought more joy to him over the challenges that occur. These positives availed from the inspirations others got from looking at his different designs and creations.
Neon Briggs has had the opportunity to showcase his talent in different Caribbean countries such as Dominica and Guyana and hopes he can strengthen business relations with different event organisers and promoters within those countries and by extent across the Caribbean.
A Glimpse into the Future
With the excitement in Antigua over his various designs at various events we asked Mr. Briggs about his future plans for Briggs Designs he simply states:
“My goal is not just to be recognized on the local stage, but also internationally. I also intend to expand and become a full event management company which would be involved in every aspect of event décor from planning to fruition.”
In addition he advises anyone who wishes to pursue such a career as this:
“For better or worse, there could only be one you. Though you should strive to be like and better than the best, never become mediocre. Find a direction for your work and embrace it… Being unique, flexible and inventive is key in this field.
You are you own success story. Always bring a high level of authenticity and integrity to your level of work and never allow others to pull you down. There will be good days and there will be terrible ones, but all the greats know that the satisfaction of one great day overshadows 1000 bad days. Never give up on your dreams. Keep learning, perfect your craft. Be the best.”
With this we hope to see great things in the future and wish him all the best as he soars to make his island proud through his creativity.
