Spotlight sat down with event-planning guru and founder of Forbes Functions, Cameron Forbes, to hear all about how she got her start in the industry, and of course, the fabulous bris she brought to life for RHONY star Erin Lichy.
Check out the exclusive Q&A below!
What were you doing before starting Forbes Functions?
My mother is a lifelong gardener and creative and my grandmother was the ultimate hostess, so I grew up surrounded by women who knew how to make people feel celebrated. I’ve always been passionate about storytelling through hospitality, beginning my career in design and public relations. I graduated during the pandemic and spent two years working in banking, which gave me a strong foundation in professionalism and operations.
What prompted you to start this business?
I grew up watching my mom arrange flowers and my grandma open her home to everyone, and those moments stuck with me. I wanted to start Forbes Functions because I saw a real opportunity to bring that same warmth and creativity to events in a fresh way. I noticed so many gatherings looked beautiful, but felt a bit surface-level, and I knew we could do better.
Coming out of the pandemic, I wanted to help people reconnect and get together again. By combining beautiful design with genuine passion, I set out to create experiences where every detail has meaning, and every guest feels connected. We create events that people talk about not just for the decor, but for the way they made everyone feel.
We heard you lead an all-female team. Why was this important to you when curating your staff?
We’re proudly an all-women, under-30 team! We’ve organically attracted a group of dynamic, creative, and ambitious women who share the same values, work ethic, and passion for meaningful experiences. It’s a culture rooted in collaboration and mentorship, and it’s deeply important to me to create a space where young women can lead with confidence and grow professionally in what is often a high-pressure, high-stakes industry.
As a young founder, I’ve had to earn the trust of clients and collaborators in serious rooms and that’s something I take great pride in. It’s become part of our team culture: we show up prepared, we communicate with clarity, and we handle every detail with care. That foundation of trust and excellence is what allows us to consistently deliver events that feel elevated, intentional, and unforgettable.
We saw you create a gorgeous bris event for RHONY star Erin Lichy’s newborn son. What was your reaction when she reached out to you?
I was so honored and excited when Erin called us again! She’s got amazing taste and really cares about both style and meaning, so it felt great that she trusted us with something so personal. Right away, I knew this wasn’t just another event, it was a chance to create a beautiful space for family, faith, and community to come together. Knowing Erin trusts our team’s vision and capabilities sets the tone for a collaborative, inspired process right from the start.
What was the process of conceptualizing this event like?
The creative process was truly collaborative. Erin had a clear vision; she wanted something modern, elegant, but still warm and intimate. We built the design around her aesthetic, layering in custom florals, soft textures, and personal touches that honored both tradition and her family’s story.
What was your goal for Lichy’s bris event?
My goal for the bris was simple: create a warm, inviting space where friends and family could come together to celebrate Erin’s newborn and really spend time with one another. I wanted the ceremony’s meaning to be front and center, but in a setting that felt fresh and modern. From the soft florals to the way the chairs were arranged, every detail was chosen to spark conversation, connection, and joy. At the end of the day, I wanted everyone to leave feeling like they’d shared something truly special.
How did it feel seeing yours and Lichy’s vision come to life on the event day?
Seeing everything come together on the day of the bris was so rewarding. I love those first few hours watching the venue and design take shape. From flowers going into vases, tables getting dressed, and that buzz before the first guests arrive, I love every moment! But, the best part was when Erin walked in and you could see how happy she was. Watching her and her loved ones relax into the room and enjoy the moment made all those late nights worth it.
What’s next for you?
We’ve got so many exciting events lined up this season, and I can’t wait to share them. Summer in the Hamptons is right around the corner, and we’re gearing up for a series of curated gatherings there that are going to be amazing. It’s going to be a busy, fun summer!
