Be Our Guest…
Friday, October 28, 2011
As a creative professional, there’s no greater feeling than having your talent recognized by one of the largest brands in the world. Last September, LaTanya Beauregard, an art director with Disney’s Yellow Shoes Creative Group, contacted me about styling an editorial for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons Marketing Division. I must admit, when I received the initial email, I was in denial. I wondered why my spam filter didn’t catch the message because THIS was unreal. After a few email exchanges, the contract was solidified; I was to be the fashion stylist for an upcoming wedding editorial and promotional campaign. *pops bottle of sparkling cider while hitting my dougie*
I calmed my nerves, and began two weeks of preparation for the project. LaTanya’s storyboard was laid out perfectly, so I knew the direction. This was one of the first shoots where I wasn’t heavily involved in the planning and concept creation; I was slightly apprehensive. Mickey Mouse and I go back like cornrows – naturally, I did not want to let him down. However, once the contract was signed, Mickey was the least of my concerns.I was legally bound to produce awesomeness.
To ensure I was on the same page as the team, I had conference calls with Mark Drennen, the producer, and LaTanya. We established a budget, virtually ran through the shoot and made sure I was equipped with all necessary information to do an amazing job.
Once I arrived in Orlando, I had access to the entire Disney costume vault. Can you say “OVERWHELMING?” It was surreal. To actually hold your childhood in your hand brought on many bouts of nostalgia. *cues Somewhere Over the Rainbow* Once I perused the vast inventory, I pulled the actual crown and jewels of Glinda the Good Witch from The Wizard of Oz, Cinderella’s glass slipper and Prince Charming’s tuxedo and scepter. Wedding gowns were pulled from designer Alfred Angelo, and I went shopping to complete the looks.
Instead of hiring models, Greg and Kristen Griffin, an actual couple married at Disney World,were cast for the campaign. This was a nice touch – there’s nothing like feeling the love and genuine happiness on set. LaTanya assembled a rockstar team and I was happy to be apart. Enjoy some behind the scenes photos and the editorial below.
***Photography and concept was for Disney’s Fairy tale Weddings & Honeymoons Marketing Division. Photographer, Diana Zalucky, Hair/MUA, Ana Rivera
10 Comments
I was THRILLED to work with you on this shoot! It was amazing to see everything come to life in these photos after the fact. Nothing made me happier was to have 3 Famuans working on a shoot for one of the biggest brands in the world!! I wish you continued success!
-Maki
Congrats Apuje! That’s huge, and SO fun!
This is awesome man. You never cease to amaze me. I’m proud of you brother. Continue to strive for your dreams and never look back. Great things in store for you. God Bless!- TRG3
Great job as usual!
WOW! Congratulations, Apuje! This is a big, big deal. I can imagine the awe of walking through that Disney vault. I think I would’ve fainted. ha! Anywho, love the editorial! What I like the best is that a real couple was used for the editorial. Nice touch.
Great job, the wardrobe is literally a fairytale!
Wow Apuje! This is so very very awesome!!! You are so truly talented and it’s exciting to see you ever moving forward. Keep pushing!
Wow, what an experience! Congrats.
It was awesome to work with you.. You did a great job. I just checked out your blog and saw this post and it felt like we were right back on the set in the middle of the Magic Kingdom. Your portfolio of work is amazing and I wish you much success! Thanks for your help on this.. I agree with Courtney it was great to have 3 Famu Alum working together.
Thanks so much, LaTanya Beauregard
Can we say movin on up!? SO proud of you Good Brother! Its acknowledgments that come at random that show the most respect for your work.
Word Up!