Hi everyone, how are you? To close out the year in style, I’ve prepared a very special post! And those who follow me on Instagram (@aondecasar) probably know what I’m talking about, right? Some invitations arrive as a gift. Others arrive as a calling. Participating in the Table Design Exhibition – Creativity Conference 2025, in Istanbul, was exactly that: international recognition and, at the same time, an opportunity to represent Brazil on one of the most important stages for table design and event decoration in the world.
And since I was there representing my country, it made perfect sense to share this moment with someone who embodies creativity, sensitivity, and excellence like few others. That’s why I invited Andrea Guimarães to join me in this experience—one of the most talented and admired designers in Brazil, known for her meticulously crafted and uniquely personal designs, especially in the world of children’s décor. Having Andrea by my side was not only a professional choice but a choice of the heart.
I arrived in Istanbul before the official opening of the event, precisely because of the setup of our installation. While the general public wouldn’t start circulating until December 17th, we, the invited designers, had already been immersed in a true creative marathon since the 15th. We all stayed at the absolutely wonderful The Peninsula Istanbul , a hotel that is an experience in itself—elegant, contemporary, and with a cinematic view of the Bosphorus. It was there that the group of international designers began to connect, exchange ideas, and create bonds that went far beyond work.
On the evening of December 15th, we had a special welcome dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus , in the Olea restaurant. It was an intimate gathering, just for the designers and a very few guests, one of those moments that makes it clear that something special is about to happen.
Assembly days
December 16th started early. Very early. By 9 am we were already at the event venue to begin setting up the tables. It was an intense few hours, full of aesthetic decisions, technical adjustments, and a lot of teamwork—including with local professionals who were certified during the process. It was moving to see everyone’s dedication and care to ensure each space was impeccable. That same day, we had a delicious lunch at the Four Seasons Bosphorus and, in the evening, dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Istanbul , moments that served almost as pauses amidst the creative whirlwind. Those who follow me have already seen a lot of content from both hotels. This being my seventh time in Istanbul, I know them well and am always warmly welcomed—the managers of both are dear friends!
On the 17th, anticipation was at its peak. By 4 pm, all the tables needed to be finished. Andrea and I worked with incredible synergy. The design she created was simply breathtaking: a table with metal candelabras, golden Dubai chairs—a clear and sophisticated homage to the United Arab Emirates—and a floral installation of roses cascading down the edge of the table to the floor. A scenic design, strong and, at the same time, delicate. The result? A striking, original, and absolutely unforgettable project.
The official opening of the exhibition took place on the evening of December 17th. From then on, more than 400 professionals from all over the world circulated through the space. I confess: I could barely move. People came to hug me, talk, thank me, share stories. Andrea watched everything, moved—and, at one point, told me that she had never experienced anything like it. Seeing the affection, recognition, and international respect for my work, and being able to share that with someone I admire so much, was one of the most special moments of my professional career.
In addition to the exhibition, I also participated in the panel “Redefining luxury in different destinations with creative experiences,” discussing cultural diversity, global exchanges, and the future of international events. It was a powerful, sensitive, and necessary debate that further reinforced the purpose of what we do.
The following days continued intensely, with lunches at Divan Taksim and Tuzz Restaurant, as well as meetings, conversations, and many exchanges with incredible designers from all over the world. The atmosphere was one of respect, admiration, and collaboration.
Andrea experienced all of this with beautiful dedication. Istanbul profoundly marked her history, as she herself said. Seeing this “click” happen, this international recognition take shape before my eyes, was thrilling. She didn’t just shine—she enchanted. And I leave the Table Design Exhibition – Creativity Conference 2025 with a full heart. Grateful to Meltem Tepeler and Cemre Tepeler for their trust and impeccable management of the event. To WEMA Global, the Wedding Venues Directory, Turkish Airlines, The Peninsula Istanbul, and everyone who made it all possible. And, of course, to Andrea Guimarães—for believing, creating, sharing, and dreaming with me.
So, what did you think?
Until next week, or rather, until next year! Happy 2026!
Kisses,
Simone.
Photos: P.Taufiq Photography and S&S Visual Maker
