‘Flock Off’: Fenton Decorator Featured in First-Ever Charity Decorating Duel

You’ve heard of the Food Network’s “Iron Chef” competition? That’s so last year.

On Sunday, Nov. 10, Lighthouse of Oakland County is starting what it hopes will be a new trend with the nation’s first ever “Decorating Duel – the Ultimate Flock-Off” as part of th third annual Lighting the Way for the Holidays party to be held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at The Townsend Hotel in Birmingham.

And Fenton’s Jon Gerych of Gerych’s Distinctive Flowers & Gifts is in the thick of all those bows, baubles and other holiday embellishments. He will be challenging David McKnight of Emerald City Designs, Farmington Hills.

The whole idea is to raise money to support Lighthouse of Oakland County’s programming and help the agency make the holiday happier for more than 800 families.

“This event provides essential funding for Lighthouse of Oakland County’s supportive programs - hundreds of families will also receive holiday gifts and meals,” Priscilla Perkins, the agency’s chief development officer, said in a news release. “We are looking forward to a fabulous event thanks to the support of our sponsors, board and committee members and of course, the community. It’s going to be a great night!”

The event starts with “big reveal” of the battle’s secret ornamentation before Gerych and McKnight engage guests with the action-packed contest of creativity. They will embellish a trim-less tree utilizing decorations that embrace the theme of sustainability, a key focus in Lighthouse of Oakland County’s mission, as they go head-to-head for bragging rights and the title “The Ultimate Flocker!”

Partygoers will have a chance to vote for their favorite, and the designer garnering the most votes will earn the 2013 Decorating Duel Fan Favorite title.

Fox 2 Anchor Huel Perkins will serve as moderator alongside Detroit News Columnist and Duel color commentator Neal Rubin. The Ultimate Flocker! will be determined by a panel of celebrity judges and immediately after announcing the winner, both trees will be auctioned off live to the highest bidder.

Party patrons will be wowed by the silent auction’s selection of seasonal and holiday décor and gift items including a plethora of one-of-a-kind, designer created trees, wreaths and centerpieces. Local and national celebrities show their support for LOC’s work and have donated decorated ornaments especially for this year’s event.

Michigan-based artist Tola Lewis will share her musical stylings throughout the evening, enhancing the night’s entertainment with her unique sound.

During the party, The Townsend Hotel will offer stations of international cuisine, cocktails and the perfect venue to celebrate the season.