After getting a fine arts degree at Manhattanville College, Valvo spent a few years traveling in Europe. Upon his return, the Westchester County native enrolled at Parsons School of Design. Europe beckoned again, and he began designing ready-to-wear for Nina Ricci in Paris, followed by a stint at Christian Dior. Back to New York in 1989, he started his own business. With a solid reputation for his Collection line, and celebrity and VIP clients who wanted individualized creations, Valvo launched Carmen Marc Valvo Couture in 1998 , later adding swimwear, sunglasses/eyewear, lingerie, home décor and evening bags. As a colon cancer survivor, Valvo is an Entertainment Industry Foundation ambassador, helping g raise millions for colon cancer research. Since 2004 he has partnered with Katie Couric to support research for her National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance. In 2006, Valvo received the first ever Advocate Award from Couric.