FRIDAY APRIL 17TH, 2026
7:00pm – Cocktails Party
9:00pm – Fashion Show
Toronto Congress Centre – 1020 Martin Grove Rd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 4W1
North Building, Halls H & I
CITY COUTURE
CITY COUTURE is an imaginative evening where elevated design, fashion innovation, and impactful giving intersect within the world of the Living Luxe Design Show 2026.
The Event promises to be an affair of grandeur, drawing a curated gathering of design leaders, influential media personalities, and prominent figures from the greater Toronto Area and beyond. Your presence will not only celebrate the art of fashion and design but will also make a meaningful difference.
The Experience
- A wonderful night filled with style, energy, and celebration
- Open bar featuring premium drinks throughout the evening
- Gourmet appetizers curated for a social, upscale atmosphere
- An exciting live auction with exclusive items and experiences
- Glamorous black carpet photos to capture unforgettable moments
- A runway fashion show showcasing standout designs and talent
A Bold New Chapter:
AIM for Impact
This special collaboration brings together SickKids Foundation and Autism in Mind (AIM) to support children and families facing complex health and developmental challenges.
Autism in Mind (AIM) is a dedicated charity helping children with autism and other developmental needs reach their full potential. Many families face daily challenges accessing the right therapies, education, and support. AIM delivers personalized programs, therapies, and resources that empower children to learn, grow, and thrive.
In partnership with SickKids Foundation, whose mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of children through world-class care and research, this initiative creates meaningful impact across pediatric healthcare and autism support. Together, these organizations are building a stronger, more inclusive future for children and families.
Every child’s journey is unique. Through this collaboration, families are supported, children are celebrated, and small milestones become life-changing moments. Your support directly contributes to advancing pediatric care, critical research, and autism services across our communities.
THE AUCTION
Every bid helps fund pediatric care, research, and autism support so you can indulge while making a real difference.
Bid with purpose, change lives.
THE designers
“People will stare.
Make it worth their while.” — Harry Winston
Couture Runway Show Curated by
Check back to see who we will be featuring on the runway!
MEET OUR COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Co-Chairs, Jennifer Lipkowitz & Marialisa De Gasperis
Jennifer Lipkowitz is the publisher of Living Luxe, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province, and co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Before launching the magazine in 2019, Jennifer spent a decade as the chief operating officer of a well-respected Toronto-based publication, and was a driving force when the magazine expanded across Canada and into Florida. She exited the publication to explore new opportunities—the creation of Living Luxe is the result of her work in not only the publishing community, but in the building and design industries. Jennifer is very passionate about philanthropy and giving back, and takes part in many fundraising events in the city. In 2022, she was the co-chair of Living Luxe’s first-ever charity initiative, City Couture—an event that benefitted Toronto’s SickKids. When she isn’t busy running two successful companies with her stellar team, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her two children, her family and friends
Marialisa De Gasperis:
Dedicated philanthropist and community advocate, Marialisa is passionate about giving back to the community. With a focus on supporting innovative healthcare initiatives and families in need. Marialisa has been instrumental in driving positive change. Currently, Marialisa co-chairs the Living Luxe City Couture event, devoted supporter of Autism in Mind in collaboration with SickKids Autism Research and The Foundation. In 2022 she also co-chaired the Live Donor Program for the UNH Foundation at Toronto General Hospital, supporting groundbreaking research and developments. Additionally, Marialisa has been an active committee member for Nankind; providing vital support to families navigating cancer treatment, for three consecutive years. ‘I am truly grateful and thrilled to be part of the Living Luxe team and to co-chair City Couture for the fourth consecutive year. This event is a testament to the power of community and compassion, and I am honoured to play a role in making a difference.’ Through tireless efforts and unwavering commitment, Marialisa continues to make a lasting impact in the community.
Committee Members
Suki Choi
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Suki Choi is the visionary founder of Autism In Mind (AIM), a registered Canadian charity dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities and support for individuals with autism and their families. What began in 2011 with a single child’s needs has blossomed into a leading community organization providing therapy, education, family support, and innovative programs across the Greater Toronto Area.
Under her leadership, Autism In Mind has developed holistic services that span therapy, registered private school for special needs students, and community-building initiatives. Suki also spearheaded the creation of Blob Café—an inclusive vocational training space that empowers neurodiverse individuals through meaningful work experience and community connection.
Suki’s dedication is driven by compassion, community partnership, and a steadfast belief that every person deserves the chance to thrive. Her work continues to inspire families, professionals, and supporters throughout the autism community and beyond.
Amber Walker
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Meet Amber Walker, 2026 Living Luxe Show Director and the powerhouse CEO behind Amber Walker Events. With over 15 years of experience, including extensive trade show production across the United States, Amber has orchestrated exceptional events throughout North America and is now expanding her expertise into Europe. From intimate, high-stakes moments, such as planning a dream proposal for an MLB professional, to star-studded productions including events for the Oscars, Amber’s reputation for flawless execution speaks for itself.
What truly sets Amber apart is her relentless commitment to making the impossible happen. She thrives on bringing her clients’ visions to life with seamless precision and without the stress. For Amber, “can’t” is never an option. Her signature mindset is best captured in her favorite phrase: “I don’t want to hear what you can’t do; tell me what you can.” This solutions-driven approach is what distinguishes her in the industry.
Beyond event planning, Amber is also a creative force in the luxury space as the founder of her own jewelry design company. Whether she’s curating unforgettable experiences or crafting stunning designs, Amber’s passion lies in thinking outside the box and pushing boundaries to deliver excellence. If you can dream it, Amber can make it happen.
Mahmoud Joghtaei
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Mahmoud Joghtaei is a partner at Lawrence Park Development and serves as its Chief Operating Officer, a luxury residential developer recognized for its thoughtful design and forward-looking approach to modern living. Mahmoud began his career in the luxury single-family housing sector following his graduation from the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom, where he earned his PhD in Engineering. He continues to apply his strong research background to strategic planning and the resolution of complex project challenges.
With a deep understanding of the Design-Build process and a clear vision for 21st-century multigenerational living, Mahmoud brings together innovative design, emerging technologies, and state-of-the-art products to keep Lawrence Park Development at the forefront of the industry. His leadership has played a key role in the company’s consistent year-over-year growth.
Known among colleagues and peers for his positive attitude, methodical thinking, and ability to inspire those around him, Mahmoud is a highly driven executive who thrives on challenge. He has been actively involved in numerous charitable initiatives over the years and is excited to contribute his energy, leadership, and commitment in support of City Couture.
Bobby Keivanloo
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Bobby Keivanloo serves as President of Lawrence Park Development, one of the Toronto’s & GTA’s most respected luxury bespoke residential development firms. He holds a degree in Science from York University and brings more than 20 years of experience in luxury custom homes and real estate development.
Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and deep appreciation for design as an art form, Bobby has built strong partnerships with many of the city’s leading architectural, interior design, and planning firms. His extensive expertise spans new construction, estate homes, historically sensitive projects, and major renovations.
Throughout every project, Bobby is committed to transparency and excellence, ensuring clients are well informed and confidently guided from concept to completion. His leadership, experience, and passion for quality continue to shape Lawrence Park Development’s reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and enduring value.
Jennifer Melino
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Jennifer Melino is the Canadian Representative for Brand Strategy and Relations at TOTO. Her role is focused on strengthening brand presence while advancing TOTO’s commitment to wellness, sustainability, and thoughtful living.
The intention is to cultivate strategic local and international partnerships and meaningful relationships that align brand storytelling with human-centered design, innovation, and well-being.
By collaborating closely with internal teams and trusted partners, Jennifer helps bring TOTO Japan’s philosophy of comfort, balance, and holistic wellness to life in ways that resonate and endure.
Ali Khalilzadeh
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Ali Khalilzadeh is the Founder and CEO of Floorence Tile, a luxury tile and porcelain slab supplier based in Toronto. With over 25 years of experience in the tile and building materials industry, Ali is known for his strong market knowledge, passion for design, and forward-thinking approach.
Under his leadership, Floorence has become a trusted partner for high-end residential, commercial, and architectural projects, supplying premium interior tile, porcelain slabs, and exterior façade solutions from leading Italian and Spanish manufacturers. As an entrepreneur, Ali has helped take the industry to the next level while creating long-term growth and job opportunities. He is proud to support initiatives like City Couture that bring design and community together.
Sareh Shalchi
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Sareh Shalchi is the Director of Floorence Tile and the creative mind behind the Floorence brand. She named the company Floorence and built its identity from the ground up. With a strong focus on design, branding, and leadership, Sareh created and leads a professional all-women team, fostering a collaborative and empowering work environment.
She works closely with designers, builders, and architects to deliver design-driven solutions and an elevated client experience. As an entrepreneur, Sareh has helped create many job opportunities and continues to push the industry forward through branding, showroom development, and meaningful partnerships. She is honoured to be part of the City Couture committee and to support its charitable mission.
Mehran Khayeri
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Mehran Khayeri is a leading figure in Canada’s luxury flooring industry and the founder of Khayeri Flooring, based in Toronto. With over 25 years of experience, he is widely recognized for his expertise in high-end, bespoke hardwood flooring and for elevating engineered wood solutions in the Canadian market.
Founded in 2001, Khayeri Flooring has earned a reputation for premium craftsmanship and design innovation under Mehran’s leadership. An early pioneer of multi-layered and wide-plank engineered flooring in Canada, he has curated flooring solutions for more than 9,000 luxury condominium and hotel suites worldwide, including landmark projects such as the Burj Khalifa and numerous high-profile Canadian developments.
Known for his refined design philosophy, Mehran draws inspiration from global travel and international design hubs such as Milan and Copenhagen. His collections—most notably Memories of Scandinavia—blend contemporary aesthetics with sustainability, durability, and meticulous attention to detail. Beyond traditional design, he collaborates with artists to transform flooring into functional art, reinforcing his belief that materials should tell a story as much as they serve a purpose.
An avid traveler and artist at heart, Mehran approaches every project with passion, craftsmanship, and a belief in creating spaces that truly honor the foundation beneath them—embodying his philosophy to “worship the ground you walk on.”
Debbie Di Pietro
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Debbie Di Pietro serves as Director of Sales & Marketing at Lancaster Custom Cabinetry, bringing more than 25 years of industry experience to her role. With a deep understanding of craftsmanship and a sharp business acumen, Debbie combines creative vision with strategic leadership to deliver exceptional results.
Throughout her career, Debbie has built a reputation for excellence in bespoke custom cabinetry. She is passionate about connecting with clients, understanding their vision, and transforming their ideas into beautifully crafted realities whether designing a stunning custom kitchen, an elegant dressing room, or a full home of finely detailed millwork. Her approach is grounded in precision, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each project reflects both refined aesthetics and everyday functionality.
Debbie believes that exceptional design goes beyond appearance; it must enhance the way people live. Her commitment to quality, service excellence, and tailored solutions has consistently allowed her to exceed client expectations while upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Debbie is deeply committed to giving back to the community and supporting the City Couture Committee and its meaningful philanthropic mission.
Lily Li
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Lily Li is a portfolio manager and Chartered Investment Manager. She is deeply committed to community service. She volunteers with multiple charitable organizations, serving on committees for the SickKids Foundation and CANFAR, on the Leadership Council of the Canada Soccer Foundation, and on the Board of the Canadian Opera Company.
Karolina Mach
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Karolina Mach is the Business Administrator at Living Luxe, an Ontario-based high-end architectural, design, and lifestyle publication. With over 15 years of experience in business management, she has worked closely with diverse teams and individuals, fostering a deep appreciation for community and collaboration.
Guided by a lifelong passion for giving back, Karolina has always believed in creating opportunities for children to feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. She holds a strong conviction that everyone deserves the chance to build the life they envision, which continues to inspire her commitment to community involvement, especially initiatives that support and uplift children.





