Dennis Fox is a retired visual merchandiser who has a knack for large-scale interior decorating and design. Although Fox left his position at Value City Furniture nearly two years ago, he is still quite the worker bee.
Following his retirement, Fox began a new journey that allowed him to use his experience and creativity by joining Studio 25 Decor, helping to create a cheerful, holiday ambiance for shopping malls, retail stores and youth hospitals.
Spending time together shopping and traipsing from one elaborately festive store to the next is a big part of the holiday magic during seasons like Christmas for a lot of families, which is something Fox says he is grateful to be a part of.
Can you tell me a little bit about your role as a holiday decorator and designer?
My position entails traveling around the United States making preparations for new projects and ensuring that all the necessary decorations and equipment for each install has been accounted for. I also help design decorations for upcoming assignments and assist with the logistics and fulfillment for current jobs.
What is your favorite color?
Blue.
What are a few things you like about your work?
Gratification for being able to use my creativity to help make people smile after my team and I have completed a job. I also enjoy meeting new people and getting to see different places.
How much time goes into decorating one location?
Most installs take about a day to complete.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
At the time, I assumed I would just marry, have kids and find a good job.
What has life been like for you since retiring?
Since retiring, I have been almost as busy as before I retired. I do full-time jobs and also some things that are relaxing. Hopefully, this coming year will have less work and more relaxation.
You expressed having a strong passion for equality and advocating for those who lack equal rights. Can you elaborate on that some?
I feel like we are all equal and should have the same opportunity for living our lives without prejudice. We all put our pants on the same way, one leg at a time.
You mentioned having a generally positive outlook on life and appear to be quite the optimist. When faced with negativity or oppression, how do you persevere?
I have always tried to look at life from a positive outlook by focusing on the good in things. We all have our down moments, but staying there will only eat at you, resulting in a kind of life I have no desire for living.
What kind of things do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Working in my yard, kayaking, and spending time with my sons, boyfriend and friends.
What is your favorite food?
Pizza.
Imagine you just played the lottery and hit the jackpot for $1,000,000. What would be the first thing you buy?
I would buy my two sons a new home. I live a modest life, so I don’t need lots of money. Although, I can’t say it wouldn’t be nice to have.
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
The Dominican Republic.
Join us: This story is made possible with the help of qnotes’ contributors. If you’d like to show your support so qnotes can provide more news, features and opinion pieces like this, give a regular or one-time donation today.