A local events decoration club recently celebrated their first anniversary and are thankful for the business opportunities they've had in the last 12 months.

The Fatufatua’i Faamanuiaga Club – which comprises 12 youth from different walks of life who are residents of Mulifanua, Manono, Samatau and Pata Falelatai villages – have in the last 12 months won over 50 contracts to decorate venues for different occasions.

The club has decorated venues for events such as birthdays and concerts to graduations and wedding ceremonies.

Fatufatua’i Faamanuiaga Club President, Jerry S Puni, expressed their gratitude to their clients and everyone who has supported their club over the last year.

“Since this group first started last year it has been a rough journey, however, with the assistance of many it has managed to become one of the most recommended services for faalavelave and other occasions in Samoa,” he said.

“Decorations were first introduced to Samoa decades ago but what makes Fatufatua’i unique is the emphasis and creativity incorporated into designing fabrics and artistic layouts of flower arrangements in the most eye-catching and breathtaking setup.

“Over the last 12 months our team have decorated more than 50 occasions namely weddings, birthdays, graduations, funerals, banquets, cultural competitions, dedication ceremonies, concerts but mostly church decorations.”

The 12 youth members, who now make up the club's membership, were united by their love for the use of creative decoration at special events including church programs.

It is understood the initiative was originally a partnership, but it later became an established platform that encouraged youth and the younger generation to choose the art of decoration, as a supplementary income to assist their families.

Mr Puni added that the ultimate goal behind the establishment of the club is to enable its members to share their knowledge and skills in decorating while earning a living to support their families.

He said a majority of the team members in the club take care of their elderly relatives at home.

The club also strives to cooperate with as many organisations as possible to maintain a high quality service while enhancing their skills. Currently, their services are available in Savai’i, Upolu, Manono and Apolima. 

Mr Puni said they can also assist with decoration requests for any particular “faalavelave”.

“Reaching this milestone (of one year) is a great opportunity for us to review our past experiences and develop new approaches for upcoming events, not only as a trend of creating a positive life for youth to refrain from suicidal addictions but also assisting community developments,” he added.