“A core element of good design is the confluence of perspectives. It’s one of the things I cherish most about my work—the ability to draw on the experiences of others to create something truly spectacular.
My fascination with design took root decades ago while studying sustainable textile design at Kansas State University, and it deepened when I moved to Europe for postgraduate studies at the University of the Arts London. There, I began exploring conceptual design framed around this idea of collaboration: Multiple minds can create something greater than their individual thoughts. The philosophy meshes brilliantly with my design work for NCEF.
In 2017, NCEF recruited me. The team approached me about designing the lot room, where we set up tailored vignettes for each auction package to get bidders excited about the possibilities. I work with the donating luxury brands to distill their brands and messages into small vignettes and bring the packages to life. We’ve also started bringing in local design firms to help curate the lot displays. Last year, for the Trustee Treasure Trove, we had a Barbie-inspired Naples Dreamhouse built by Thomas Riley Artisans’ Guild and Method & Concept. I coordinate to ensure we have the right partners for the lots and that everything goes off without a hitch. The throngs of enthusiastic donors who outdo their bids each year underscore why NCEF stands out among the area’s nonprofits.

Photography by Brain Tietz
Matthew kritis nwwf visual designer
Matthew Kritis started volunteering with NWWF in 2017 and has taken ownership of the lot room’s design since. The professional stages tailored vignettes, creating the perfect atmosphere for guests to get excited about potential bids.
The festival’s collective community spirit reminds me of my mother’s advocacy for children’s welfare. Throughout my upbringing in St. Louis, Missouri, she oversaw licensing and regulation for childcare at the state level while confronting cases of child abuse and neglect. Her service inspired my own commitment to volunteer when I settled in Naples as an adult.
Design planning for NWWF begins as early as May. By the time setup starts months later, it feels like organized chaos. I do a final walkthrough to ensure everything is put together, from checking the placards indicating the lot numbers to ensuring the linens are lint-free.
On live auction day, I’m in the lot room, making sure each streamer falls just so and rearranging bundles of peonies until the last second. A photographer captures everything in the morning, and before we know it, it’s time to take everything down. But despite the brief peak, the joint effort always feels rewarding.

Photography by Brian Tietz
Matthew kritis nwwf visual designer
Kritis thrives on the festival’s spirit of collaboration, drawing fellow design maestros to bring the lot room to life.
Last year’s collaboration with Kaleidoscope Floral exemplifies the energy, creativity and collaborative spirit. For the Fund a Need paddle raise, we conceptualized a one-of-a-kind centerpiece around mental health and early learning. We interpreted the theme around the idea of education as a tool for building roots to shape strong, resilient minds. The arrangement, with earthy bases cascading into lavender, violet, forest green and coral pink hues, symbolized how education grounds and elevates children’s futures.
NCEF embodies a spirit of synergy, bringing together top vintners and chefs from around the globe to forge an event that has a transformative impact. Volunteering at the festival lets me share my work with other brilliant creatives. Playing a role in children’s stories of hope that bloom when we come together makes it all worthwhile.”
As told to Visvajit Sriramrajan