I had the chance to speak with the charismatic Mr. Alexander this week and pick his brain with the RP Report's "Favorite Five Questions". Enjoy!

RP Report: What is your favorite current trend in our industry?

Frank Alexander: My favorite trend at the moment is the passionate mixing of burnished metals. In linens, covers, furniture, glass with appliqués on it. It offers warmth and shine simultaneously.

RP Report: What trend do you wish would go away?

Frank Alexander: The trend that I wish would go away is the use of damask, particularly the black and white. It is so mass marketed at this point that it doesn't have any cache to it. It is no longer special because it is everywhere.

RP Report: What do you think will be the next ‘big thing’ in special events (does not need to be in your area of the event industry, but can be)?

Frank Alexander: I think the next big thing in special events is The Interactive Environment – where décor, entertainment and dining continue to become a more 3 dimensional experience for guests. That means that planners and designers will be using video, projection and table to table communication in newer and far more interesting ways. We are searching for the total environment, which means connection and lots of movement from floor to ceiling.

RP Report: What is your favorite event that you have ever worked on, and why?

Frank Alexander: I have many favorites, but the one that is dearest to me is a 2006 wedding we did in San Miguel, Mexico. We were given great creative leeway. We had the opportunity to design a party that dreams are made of and then overcame the most incredible challenges in order to get it done! The couple resided In Texas, and wanted a destination wedding that didn't feel like a resort. So San Miguel it was! The architecture was amazing, on the top of a large hill, and very old world. It was fantastic four day event. We really took inspiration from the town itself and worked very closely with many of the local artisans. Attempting to really utilize the resources was key. We were given the freedom to actually build around the charming and rustic space with absolutely no limitations. Of course we had to arrive during the running of the bulls… just one of the challenges! There was a local week long festival happening at the time. This obviously was challenging to work around, but also was invaluable, as it provided the guests with activities and allowed them to truly immerse themselves in the culture of the place. It was magical!

RP Report: In the spirit of community, if you had to recommend one vendor or venue who you think does fabulous work, who would that vendor/venue be, and why?

Frank Alexander: The 2 venues I am most inspired by are The IAC Building Technical Treasure Trove, and the Steven Weiss Studio, an incredible organic, raw art box. I am constantly designing environments for these spaces in my head! The "one" vendor that could MAKE a party and thus gets my recommendation is Taylor Creative – ever evolving selection, quality of product, service, reliability and Bobby’s staff is bar none!

Thanks to Frank Alexander of Frank Alexander NYC!