The Documentary That Changed My Career

Do you believe in fate? Luck? Prophesy? 

Well I do, I am an optimist in every sense of the word. 

Friend's promoting the event at Oakland Secret.
​

One Summer Ago:
​My Brand, Casually Uncommon Premiered
Our New Music Video

and Showcased

All 5 Years of My Apparel Design
Art Gallery Style
​

​At the time I didn't know it, but my music Video Premiere would launch a domino effect bringing me face to face with the most amazing opportunity of my entire life.

Here I am with one of my dearest friends, Jennifer Laughlin. She directs, styles, models, photographs, animates,
​she taught me Adobe Premiere. 
Jenny is a treasure.  

(Pay no attention to the date, this even was in mid August.)

​My Premiere and Design Showcase at Oakland Secret

Kat Ortega signing her autograph from our Highland Shoot.

​The Real

If you are an artist living in Oakland, California..

​ Chances are you don't have disposable income. ​
My models are work for free,
my photographers work for free,
my interns,
my videographers,
stylist, the list goes on
all of the musical talent at the premiere relied on donations.
How long can a labor of love sustain itself? 

Since I'm an independent,
freelance designer,
I rely on selling garments at festivals,
fairs and pop ups,
the money isn't consistant,
and I refuse to use sweatshops to manufacture,
so my product runs out fast.  


It's tough when you're in the
"Gain Exposure" era,
because more likely than not, you are growing your network and portfolio.
It's a fruitful but financially difficult time.

My music video premiere, in some form was a failure.
Long story short, it is incredibly hard to find people who are willing to help you for free. 

My friends showed up, dressed up, helped out and it was amazing, but I didn't exactly boost my brand with industry people or other designers. My network wasn't widening like I had hoped.

​But , this Premeire,
would lead to the next chapter in my tale,
and it's the most exciting chapter yet.

Close friends rocking my designs next to a banner Daniel Belcher live painted at the event.

My Big Break

It would take a few months to me to truly realize the value of being a part of Zack's documentary. 

​I thought, sure I can represent sustainably minded designers, look beautiful on camera, possibly post the documentary to my social media.

Wow, was I in for a surprise! 

I have a lot to say about the fashion industry, Oakland's art scene and the Bay Area's housing crisis. 

Artists Helping Artists. 
Once you make a connection,
the momentum just keeps going and going.

Zack directed, and produced this documentary and edited it
with the help of a friend. 
Since this wasn't sponsored or produced by a large company,
Zack didn't make money from this film,
and in-fact was able to raise money for some of the victim's families from the Ghost Ship Fire.
Zack in brought more artists who interviewed to speak and perform at his many premiere dates. Each show was incredible.

You could say, this documentary went on tour. 

​Jenny, Zack and I at the first screening of his documentary,
Underground Under Review.

This screening would chance my career forever.
Tune in next week to find hear how!