HMR DESIGNS - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Event Sales Production Assistant
Job Titles:
- Director of Human Resources
Born and raised in Riverside, Illinois, Allison brings with her 20 years of HR experience as well as an eye for design and a green thumb. A certified floral designer through her family's business, Allison relishes the opportunity to combine and enjoy her two skill sets every day. Allison takes pride in working to improve and uphold HMR policies while advocating for its employees, and also enjoys venturing into the studio to help design or accompanying the team on an installation. Outside of HMR, Allison makes time to tend to her own garden, serve on the board of the Garden Club of Illinois, and volunteer for the Archdiocese of Chicago. She also loves gourmet cooking, scuba diving, and her pet umbrella cockatoo, Puck. Her favorite flowers? Gardenia and Hellebore.
Initially joining team HMR as a Floral Studio Manager in 2008, Amanda's star has consistently risen as she's transitioned within the company through its rapid growth over the past 13 years. Amanda's sharp logistical sense and keen ability to oversee multiple people and departments led her to her current position of General Manager, where she excels in collaboration with all internal departments while continuing to play a leading role in HMR's high level work.
Ariel is from Bergen County, NJ, right outside of New York City. She graduated from the University of Alabama (Roll tide!) in 2017 where she studied Hospitality Management with a concentration in Event Planning. From there, Ariel worked at the Plaza Hotel in NYC. After some time, she wanted to try something new, catalyzing her move to Connecticut where she managed a full service event production company that offered catering, stationary needs, florals, and event design. Missing the hustle of Manhattan, Ariel bounced back across the water to NYC where she managed a venue on 5th Avenue. Looking for growth, change and a challenge, she took a chance and came to HMR and Chicago. She's loving the Windy City, and can't see what adventures come next!
Though she was raised in the Chicago suburbs, Bari has always considered herself a permanent resident within her own imagination. After getting her start at Botanicals while earning her culinary degree, (Editor's Note: Botanicals was one of several companies acquired by HMR to form our current iteration) Bari gained experience at various event companies throughout Chicagoland and eventually made her way back home to HMR Designs. With over two decades of experience, Bari's been an innovative force in our corporate and experiential events division, specializing in everything from intimate company dinners to brand activations.
Job Titles:
- Fabric & Sewing Specialist
After relocating to Chicago from Jalisco, Mexico, Beatriz joined our expanding HMR Designs team nearly ten years ago as a Fabric & Sewing Specialist. An expert in all things textiles, Beatriz contributes to a variety of events from weddings to galas and beyond. Her biggest reward comes from seeing the work she does in the studio take on life at every celebration she has had a hand in.
Bill's entrance into the world of flowers coincided with the local introduction of a massive number of new floral varieties from the Netherlands, which he enthusiastically spread throughout Chicagoland. This botanical passion led him to event design, where he found tremendous success transforming the landscape of civic and charitable events. His work evolved with a focus on spatial design and immersive experiences, and continued to dominate Chicago's celebration scene. Known for impeccable taste and execution, Bill is trusted and called upon by the city's eminent party givers. His talent and imagination know no bounds, and his events have been experienced from the mountains of Idaho to the shores of Palm Beach, from the bustle of New York and London to the rolling hills of Ireland, ever introducing the next in extraordinary design.
Born and raised in Chicago, Bill loves our city for its fabulous museums, exciting restaurant scene, and of course, our incredible summer weather. Interested in horticulture and plants from a very young age, Bill began his botanical career working in a greenhouse, eventually making his way into event design. Now, with over 35 years of floral design experience, Bill brings a unique level of expertise to every job he has a hand in. In an average week, he creates anywhere from tens to hundreds of floral pieces, ranging from every imaginable size, shape, and combination.
What do you like about your job at HMR? I'm always trying to use flowers in unconventional, unexpected ways and HMR allows me the creative space to do this. And there are always more ways to use floral!
What is your favorite flower? I like all flowers, but at this point, I love anything unusual… even to the end of being bizarre - almost ugly. Tacca (or the bat plant), for example, is just strange enough!
Inspired by the wonders and beauty of nature, problems in need of solutions, and learning from those who came before him, Bob Mertzlufft considers the outstanding event design team he has brought together to be his greatest accomplishment at HMR Designs. Providing his team with a nurturing, energetic environment, Bob readily recognizes that everyone is entitled to his or her opinion and welcomes the challenge of being pushed in any unfamiliar creative direction. Inventive as well as influenced, a levelheaded daydreamer and a stickler for details, Bob has grown organically with his company, applying his own agrarian and technical upbringing to striking, unparalleled event design.
Born and raised in St. Louis, Bob grew up in a hands-on world. Early on he formed an affinity for nature's offerings and developed a true love for visual design. Bob fortified his passions with continued education in the electrical engineering and lighting design fields; earning prestigious awards and acknowledgements for forward thinking and innovative design, including the Presidential Design Award from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1985.
With over 25 years experience in the event design industry, Bob has consistently maintained a passion for details, the thoughtfulness and care to get things right the first time, and the discretion to surround himself with caring, positive, and exceptionally talented people. He's thrilled that his efforts go toward creating the most unforgettable and joyful experiences in HMR's clients' lives.
After earning her B.A. in Communications from the University of South Florida, Brittanie Ahrens moved to Chicago on a whim. Her passion for event design began while planning weddings and corporate celebrations, which is where she now specializes with HMR Designs. A lover of building and creating, she has a true passion for the relationships she forms with her clients, and truly thrives on all creative challenges. Brittanie believes that anything can be accomplished with high energy, quick thinking, a positive attitude and a smile.
Burt Rubenstein has been creating works of art since he was a young boy. Displaying his creations at the Art Institute of Chicago as a child and designing homes and hotels throughout his career, Burt brings an authentic, deeply rooted artistry to the table. An attorney on paper and designer at heart, Burt has contributed 25 years of experience to his HMR Designs family. Passionate about cultivating happiness for his clients, building relationships and bringing wisdom to fruition, Burt blends a unique sense of fun and focus into each design endeavor he embarks on.
Joining the HMR Designs team nearly ten years ago, Carmelo has proven to be an irreplaceable craftsman in our ever-growing art department. He specializes in 3-D art and prop work, producing oversized (or undersized) design elements to any custom celebration. A six-foot broadway sign for your birthday? Carmelo. Giant ice cream cones for a mitzvah? Carmelo. He's even executed a functioning ferris wheel on more than one occasion. When he's not busy bringing a designers vision to reality, Carmelo loves to spend time with his family.
After living all over the Midwest, Charles moved to Chicago for the excitement of the big city. His critical organizational skills, experience as a stage manager, and upbeat attitude are what make him an ideal fit for his position. Charles's favorite part about his job is the satisfaction in knowing that an event went off without a hitch.
What is a fun fact about you? I can play the guitar!
Job Titles:
- Production Manager
- Art Production Manager
Growing up, Chris loved old cartoons, vintage posters, and bright, bold colors. Born and raised in Chicagoland, Chris stayed local for school and attended Columbia College Chicago, where he was able to study two of his passions - graphic design and animation! After graduating from college with a degree in Graphic Design & Animation, Chris began working graphic design in publishing, marketing, and freelancing for local governments for nearly a decade before joining the HMR team in 2017.
As the manager of the Art Department, Chris enjoys coming to work at HMR Designs because he has the opportunity to create larger than life designs, turning our clients wildest dreams into a reality.
Job Titles:
- Director of Sales Production
With our HMR Designs family for nearly a decade, Chris brings an incredible amount of experience to his consistently evolving role of Director of Sales Production. Prior to HMR, he worked for an esteemed florist in Bloomington, Indiana - followed by high level production experience with a red carpet event service company in Los Angeles. Soon after, he continued his pursuit of event design with a move to HMR where he very successfully collaborated with CEO Rishi Patel as his event producer for nearly 7 years. He now oversees our ever-expanding production needs and dynamic sales team. Having previously lived on both coasts, he is proud to call Chicago home and enjoys collaborating with HMR's various creative departments to bring to life new, sophisticated designs that inspire our clients and make for the most beautiful memories.
A Chicago native, Chris studied at DePaul University and earned his Interactive Media Major in Animation and Film Editing. He is an artist by trade and at heart, and his passion for graphic design is palpable.
Outside of work, Chris is an avid pizza cook, pianist and loves to study anthropology and ancient art.
Colleen moved to Chicago from the West Suburbs, where she grew up. She attended Northern Illinois University to earn her degree in History. Although she studied the past, Colleen is a huge advocate for living in the present. She is inspired by the little things in life - a great cup of coffee, nature putting on another fabulous show of color, and watching her family adapt and grow during times full of change and adversity.
At HMR, she loves the challenges of each job. No event is ever the same, and she thrives in the environment of problem solving and creation.
Job Titles:
- Accounts Receivable Supervisor
Originally from St. Peters, MO, Dan moved to Chicagoland when he began school at Lake Forest College to study Business. Since then, he's worked for financial institutions of all sorts, including Boards of Trades and Banks. He is often found hiking, reading or spending time with loved ones when he is not working.
David has been designing events with the HMR team since 1998. His unique style combines big ideas, bold color, and inventive twists to create extraordinary event experiences. He's made his mark as a meticulous planner, immersing himself in every detail key to orchestrating successful projects.
Having earned the trust of top corporations, planners, and venues, David hones his craft producing corporate events at trade shows, major sporting events, charity galas, political events, and private celebrations. To this day, he is continually driven and inspired by opportunity-to achieve new things, to break new ground, to create new bonds, to smile, and to grow.
Job Titles:
- Accounts Payable Supervisor
Originally from Glenview, Illinois, Deidre received a BS in Communications from Northwestern University and has been with HMR since 1999. A lover of music, cooking, and the beauty of nature, Deidre cherishes time spent with family and friends
Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Devin Walls moved to Chicago in 2018 and graduated from DePaul University with a BFA in Scenic Design in 2023. Originally joining HMR Designs in the summer of 2021, Devin has been an integral part of the art production team and has helped with a plethora of large scale weddings and events. Having previous experience working with CAD design during his time at DePaul, Devin's unique skill set makes him the perfect addition to the HMR team.
In his free time, Devin loves experiencing the vast variety of adventures Chicago has to offer. Hitting the beach with friends or reading a good book in the summertime is an ideal day in Devin's eyes.
Who is your favorite artist? I love Gustave Klimt, his art really speaks to me and I admire his creativity!
Emily grew up outside of Cleveland, OH and moved to Chicago when she began attending DePaul University. While there, she studied business and earned her degree in Hospitality Leadership with a concentration in Event Management. She got her start in the events world while still in college and has worked for event venues, as an event coordinator and everything in between! Knowing she wanted to make a change without leaving the world of events, made HMR Designs a perfect fit. Her attention to detail and love for design make her both passionate and talented in her role.
When she isn't onsite, she enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and relaxing by the lakefront. A true adventurer, she's always looking for her next place to explore.
Job Titles:
- Senior Marketing Producer
Emma was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan and after graduating from the University of Michigan, she moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to pursue Theatre Management and Production. Since then, she's produced at theaters around the country, making her transition into the event industry relatively seamless. Her creative outlook and passion for organization drove her into brand management and marketing, which ultimately brought her to HMR Designs.
Outside of her work, Emma is a backpacker and traveler, overly invested dog-mom, and freelance photographer. She always has a cup of coffee in her hand and notebook nearby - and although she is thrilled to be a part of the HMR team, one day she may just have to start a half-tea-house, half-library on a lake in Michigan.
What other industries do you find to be the most inspiring? I am most drawn to the performing arts. My background in Theatre Management gave me incredible insight into the creation of live events, which influences the way I look at the event industry tremendously.
Ethan grew up in Saint Louis and graduated from the University of Central Missouri with a degree in Event Management. His creative mindset and passion for crafting unique events paved the way to his first career within the industry. Having worked in events since 2018, his experience and skills make him a perfect addition to HMR Designs.
He constantly takes inspiration from past and present experiences - always striving to appreciate the little things in life. When Ethan is not divulged in HMR, he takes passion in his culinary work as a chef, always trying to hone his technique to produce the perfect dish.
Chicago born and raised, Freddy joined team HMR by jumping in with both feet as an important leader on event installs - and it was his very first job! Now, with over a decade of event installation experience under his belt, Freddy is an expert at pulling off large-scale luxury events at any venue (near or far!), and manages the important day to day aspects of our in-studio mock-ups and many other essential facets of HMR's business.
Michigan born and raised, Greg studied Horticulture at Michigan State University before moving to Chicago. He has a passion for nature and architecture with enviable organization skills to boot. Working on both social and corporate events, Greg has experience at nearly every venue in Chicago. His two favorite parts of the job are getting to know all of the city's wonderful vendors and industry partners. When Greg's not working, he enjoys traveling to new places and spending time with his niece and nephew.
What do you like most about Chicago? I enjoy living next to Lake Michigan. I have a view of it from my apartment and it always amazes me.
What are you most excited about working at HMR? I love that each day brings something new.
What is your favorite flower? I have two: yellow tulips and peonies!
Originally from Zacatecas, Mexico, Gus has been with HMR Designs for twenty some years. He plays an integral role on our installations teams, working to ensure every production is as impressive as the last. In his free time you can find him devoting his days to his daughter or playing basketball. And if there's a moment to cook, his favorite cuisine to perfect is Greek.
Job Titles:
- Designer / Creative Production
After spending his formative years in Baltimore, Maryland and Camillus, New York, Jim found his way to the Midwest where he attended Illinois Wesleyan University to pursue theatre. After graduation, he kicked off what would become a decades long career in the event industry when he joined HMR Designs in 1981 (then known as Ronsley Inc.) He now oversees critical event and internal logistics among (many) other things, allowing every day at HMR to be different than the last.
Job Titles:
- Floral Studio Manager & Buyer
Job Titles:
- Mock - Up Floral Designer
Job Titles:
- Senior Event Design Producer
Job Titles:
- Inventory Control Specialist
Job Titles:
- Business Manager
- Controller
Job Titles:
- CEO I Chief Creative Officer
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Warehouse Manager