Gavin Keilly, Up Close and Personal

As the Emmy awards are fast approaching, so is the activity in LA as people gear up for one of the biggest nights in town. And while celebrities have a lot of planning to do, the true talent is the one behind the scenes.

Awarded “Best Gift Suite” on numerous occasions, GBK Founder Gavin Keilly tells of his success in preparing for his luxury award gifting suites. Calm, cool and collected, this man knows how to get things done!

How long ago did you start GBK?

Gavin Keilly: I started GBK in 2001 when I asked myself the million dollar question – what do I want to do with my life? The answer was simple at the time. I wanted to make a difference in the world and help others.

What inspired you to start your own business?

GK: I have had a few businesses in the past. It’s great having the independence. That said, I am the only one in the company who doesn’t enjoy pay day [laughs].

Have you always been interested in producing events?

GK: I produced my first event in college, when I created a bowl-a-thon for the homeless. It was incredibly rewarding to raise funds for such a worthy cause.

What do you like best about your work?

GK: Hands down, helping businesses garner exposure and GROW, whether a non-profit or a for-profit company.

Tell me about your charitable giving.

GK: GBK has raised/donated over two million in the last three years for over 40 different causes. Our goal is to always give 20% of earnings.

How do you go about choosing a charity to partner with at you gifting suites?

GK: We choose a charity in a variety of ways. Presently there is a pretty long waiting list. Priority goes to our non-profit clients that we work with. At times we will let a charity participate if they need some additional help garnering media attention, or a charity that needs additional funds due to a particulat disaster that has taken place.

What kind of products can celebrities expect at your luxury gift lounges?

GK: First and foremost GBK has a selection committee that determines if we think the celebrity would like the product. The usual things are of course no-brainers: High-end watches, vacations to St Regis in Bora Bora, an IPAD, cool jewelry, the latest headphones. But it gets tricky when we get submissions for a new $3,000 bed, custom-made shirts, protein supplements, candles… I personally do research to make sure it is high quality product that the celebrity will be happy with.

Your pre-Emmy lounge is right around the corner… can you give us a few ideas of the gifts you will have on site?

GK: Sure, but this is an exclusive for your readers, as we don’t normally let people know in advance. We have a wide range of items including (but certainly, not limited to): a trip, including Little Nell’s in Aspen; a trip with airfare to Mulia Resorts & Villas in Bali; LG bluetooth headsets; Maxim Luxury Mattress; and Michael Todd Organics will be there to create a complete skincare regimen for the celebrities.

Your events are extremely organized… what preparation goes on to prepare for them?

GK: After 10 years of doing these gift lounges, we kind of have it down to a science. You have to hire good people. My vice president, Carla is incredibly meticulous. That said, of course, you have to find a venue, hire the lighting & sound guy, get a great DJ, and additional staff. (We typically have 40-50 people working one event).

Tell me something unexpected that happened at a past gifting suite that was a surprise to you? GK: On more than one occasion a celebrity has stolen an item. I would never tell you who they were, but they certainly are not allowed back to our events. Unfortunately they felt entitled. As if one watch or pair of diamond earrings wasn’t enough.

While most people are frazzled at their own events, you’re always so calm and collected. How do you do it?

GK: Don’t sweat the small stuff. It is what it is. Most things go according to plan unless it is beyond your control. Then it is exactly that…