Sneak Peek into Oscars 2025: Live Red Carpet Highlights and Exciting Ceremony Expectations!

On a sunny weekday morning in La Mirada, California, Steve Olive, 58, walked through a massive warehouse filled with colorful carpet rolls. Among them was a stunning 150-foot rug in a special shade called Academy Red, made exclusively for the Oscars.

Though Steve may not be a celebrity himself, his carpets have graced the feet of stars for nearly 30 years. His company, Event Carpet Pros, has provided carpets for major events like the Oscars, Golden Globes, and Super Bowl, as well as movie premieres for Disney, Marvel, and Warner Bros.

As carpets evolve from traditional red to more vibrant and unique designs, Steve’s creativity shines. He’s crafted eye-catching carpets such as a shimmering pool carpet for the 2023 “Barbie” premiere and a striking glow-in-the-dark design for “Ghostbusters” in 2016.

“There’s nothing we can’t do,” Steve said of his experience running the business, which he founded with his brother-in-law, Walter Clyne, in 1992.

This week, the Oscars returned to the classic Academy Red carpet, installing it outside the Dolby Theatre in preparation for the ceremony. The 50,000-square-foot rug is a testament to tradition.

People in the industry appreciate Steve’s reliability. Joe Lewis, a producer who frequently orders carpets for the Oscars, praised him, saying, “He’s like a drive-through window. You place your order, and it’s ready.”

Steve grew up in Cerritos, California, where he was the youngest of four kids. After high school, he took a job as a bodyguard for famous musicians like Mötley Crüe and George Michael. However, the wild lifestyle proved challenging for him. “It wasn’t a pretty picture,” he recalled, describing the difficult environment.

After five years on the road, Steve was eager for a change. His brother-in-law, Walter, who had experience setting up tents, proposed starting a carpet business together. They began by laying AstroTurf under tents at small local events, relying heavily on word of mouth.

Over time, their reputation grew, eventually leading them to the Academy Awards. Interestingly, before the iconic red carpet appeared, stars would enter venues without a designated area for photographs. The introduction of the red carpet changed the game, turning it into a major platform for fashion and personal branding in Hollywood.

Now, Event Carpet Pros tackles various events, from high-profile awards shows to weddings and corporate gatherings. With 70 employees and warehouses on both coasts, the company manages numerous orders during peak times, completing about 30,000 projects annually. Their carpets are eco-friendly, made from recycled materials and later recycled again after events.

Steve no longer attends red carpet events but focuses on overseeing operations. His long-time client, Craig Waldman, appreciates Steve’s dedication and craftsmanship. “He’ll do whatever it takes,” Craig remarked, emphasizing the strong bond formed over years of collaboration.

As the demands of the industry continue to grow, Steve ensures his company remains flexible and creative. Despite trends changing with vibrant colors and intricate designs, he is confident in their ability to adapt. “We’ll find a way to get it done,” he said, proudly showcasing their extensive portfolio, which includes various custom designs in multiple colors.

Whether it’s a last-minute request for a wedding or a large event, Steve and his team are always ready to deliver. “It’s about being there when it matters,” he concluded with a smile.

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