This year marks an extraordinary milestone for Chameleon Chair Collection as we celebrate 20 years of redefining event seating. Since our debut at the 2005 Academy Awards® Governors Ball, Chameleon has become synonymous with luxury, versatility, and artistry in the world of event design.
The Visionaries Behind Chameleon
Teri Rudin: As the visionary founder of Chameleon Chair Collection, Teri’s passion for innovative event design inspired the creation of chairs that seamlessly blend artistry and functionality. Her creative approach has been the foundation of Chameleon’s success.
Behshad Shokouhi: The architectural mind behind Chameleon’s patented designs, Behshad brought Teri’s vision to life. His ability to craft timeless silhouettes and unique features, like the Fanfare back, elevated event seating into a true art form.
Barbara Starler: After a 30-year career in Education and Psychology, Barbara Starler joined Chameleon Chair Collection in 2005, bringing her expertise in personal relations and a passion for design. She focused on introducing Chameleon Chairs to the event rental industry, building the brand’s reputation for innovation and excellence. Now President and CEO, Barbara has spent 20 years guiding the company’s growth, solidifying Chameleon’s position as the gold standard in luxury event seating.
Jerome Smolar: The late CEO of Chameleon Chair Collection, Jerome’s leadership and dedication helped transform the company into a global icon for luxury and innovation in event seating. His legacy continues to inspire the team today.
The Team Behind the Magic
Ima Villacorta has been an integral part of Chameleon Chair Collection since 2006, serving as Executive Administrator of Operations and Sales. With a strong background in nonprofit work and business administration, Ima plays a vital role in streamlining operations, managing client orders, and overseeing staff and finance functions. Her dedication, reliability, and deep sense of teamwork make her a cornerstone of Chameleon’s success.
Lupe Ballesteros leads Chameleon’s Shipping & Receiving department and supervises the Soft Goods team, bringing over 29 years of experience in the event rental industry. Since 2008, Lupe has ensured each order is fulfilled with precision and care, contributing to the beauty and reliability Chameleon is known for. Her pride in seeing Chameleon’s pieces at high-profile events is a true reflection of her passion for quality and detail.
Art Hernandez has played a vital role in warehouse operations and logistics. With a background as a medical assistant, he brings a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a team-focused mindset to every task. Since joining Chameleon, he has found joy in the camaraderie of warehouse work and the hands-on process of assembling and preparing orders that contribute to unforgettable events. Outside of work, Art enjoys home improvement projects, cheering on the Dodgers, and spending quality time with his family.
Rayce PR and Marketing, Rayce PR and Marketing, led by founder Rhonda Couchigian, proudly supports the Chameleon team—a partnership that has thrived for nearly two decades. Rayce currently serves as the PR firm of record and provides Marketing Strategy and Services.
Jen McArtor, Chameleon’s Graphic Designer since 2007, brings the brand’s visual identity to life through striking digital and print materials. With a background in animation, real estate marketing, and graphic design, Jen’s creative touch ensures Chameleon’s elegance and innovation shine through every visual element—from promotional campaigns to meticulously edited product photography.
A Seat at Hollywood’s Table
Chameleon Chairs debuted at the 77th Academy Awards® Governors Ball, featuring Copper Suede covers inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural elegance. Since then, our chairs have been a staple at Hollywood’s most glamorous events, evolving alongside ever-changing themes—from Mediterranean-inspired designs to modern, streamlined aesthetics. This long-standing partnership with Sequoia Productions and creative visionary Cheryl Cecchetto underscores our reputation as the gold standard in event seating.
Innovation at the Heart of Chameleon
At Chameleon, innovation is more than a principle—it’s our foundation. Our patented designs, including the iconic Fanfare back, feature interwoven metal bands and a silhouette that is both timeless and instantly recognizable. By focusing on sustainability, adaptability, and craftsmanship, we continue to lead the industry in providing customizable, trend-setting solutions for event professionals and venues.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of design and fostering creativity in event production. With a rich history of collaboration with industry leaders like Marks Garden, Wolfgang Puck Catering, and Bright Event Rentals, we look forward to inspiring unforgettable moments for the next 20 years.
Join us as we honor our past and look ahead to a future filled with elegance, innovation, and unforgettable events.
Visit https://chameleonchair.com/gallery/ to explore our legacy and discover the designs that have shaped the event world.