From Backstage To Front Porch

IT ALL STARTED in November 2020 during the height of the pandemic. Like so many others, Johnny Bongiovanni was simply looking for something to do to brighten up an uncertain time. “I started creating and experimenting with different decorating styles during Covid purely out of boredom,” he laughs, “and realized I could make it into something bigger.” Thus, John Bongiovanni Designs was born.

INFLUENCED BY THE THEATER

Bongiovanni’s love of decorating began long before the pandemic. He fondly remembers bringing the Spring Lake Community House to life each Christmas for its annual production of “Scrooge,” transforming the space with lights, garlands, and holiday cheer. Year after year, he continues to add magical holiday touches in every corner of the Community House, with his knack for bringing the space to life. “A big part of my appreciation for design comes from growing up in the theater and working closely with [Executive Director] Pat Barry on so many projects,” Bongiovanni says. “Pat has a detailed eye and has taught me so much—I am truly grateful to have learned so much in those early years.”

Bongiovanni’s connection to the theater runs deep; it’s truly in his blood. His grandmother Francie Meehan is a Spring Lake legend who appeared in the very first Spring Lake Theatre production, “Bye Bye Birdie,” in 1976. Ever since then, his family has remained deeply involved with the organization, and Bongiovanni has been around the theater practically since birth. He started out in the Spring Lake Theatre Workshop program in 2008, later moving on to main stage productions such as “Oliver!” “Scrooge,” and “42nd Street” before eventually becoming a stage manager. While he’s always loved the magic of theater, he realized early on that his heart was more behind the scenes than on the stage. Today, he plays a part in nearly every production, though costuming remains his favorite aspect.

EXPANDING HIS DESIGN SENSE

Bongiovanni’s years behind the curtain helped shape the creative foundation he uses today in his design company. Blending his theatrical training with his lifelong love of Christmas, he has found a way to spread that same sense of magic and joy throughout Spring Lake. “So much of what I do now—layering textures, creating focal points, making things come alive through color and light—comes from what I learned in the theater,” he explains. “The stage teaches you how to tell a story visually, and that’s what I try to do with every home I decorate.”

Entrepreneurship also runs in Bongiovanni’s family—they owned a pizza shop in Spring Lake Heights for years. He believes that experience helped form his strong work ethic and business sense. “I grew up watching my family pour their hearts into what they loved,” he says. “Owning a small business is all about connection and making people happy, and that’s exactly what I hope to do through decorating.”

Bongiovanni also credits growing up in a beach town for shaping his creative outlook. “There’s nothing like living in Spring Lake,” he says. “I spent every day I could at South End Beach. It’s the best.” His love of local life and community connection now shines through in his decorating work, where he combines his theatrical eye with a timeless style.

CREATING LOOKS THAT TELL A STORY

Rather than forcing a theme for decorating, Bongiovanni lets inspiration grow naturally from what’s already there. “I use the colors, the existing landscaping, and the architecture to make everything work together,” he explains. He believes every home has its own personality and story, and his job is simply to highlight it, bringing out its best features. Most homeowners give Bongiovanni full creative freedom. “It’s a nice feeling,” he admits. “They have trust in me, and that makes the process even more rewarding.”

Bongiovanni also appreciates the bigger picture—how his work contributes to the town. When people drive through Spring Lake to admire the beautifully decorated homes, it’s impossible not to feel swept up in the holiday spirit. “It makes you appreciate the unique town we live in,” he says. “Each home has its own personality, its own little touches that make it special, but the overall look of the town remains classic.” For Bongiovanni, it’s this sense of community and shared celebration that makes decorating Spring Lake so rewarding. It brings joy not just to individual homeowners but to everyone who experiences the town during the festive holiday season.

Looking ahead, Bongiovanni envisions something far bigger. “I would love to have a shop in downtown Spring Lake,” he says, “one that’s a truly aesthetic, one-stop destination for all decorating and hosting needs.” He imagines a space where visitors can be inspired, try out new ideas, and find that special touch that elevates their celebration. Until then, Bongiovanni offers this design advice: “Just do what you like and what makes you happy,” he says with a smile. “And remember, less is more.”

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER