Let’s face it: sometimes, virtual interactions just really lack that… spark.
Take a minute to consider this question: When was the last time you traded a Zoom meeting for an in-person experience?
Lately, we’ve been opting for the latter. Whether it's onboarding with a new client at their showroom, meeting a colleague for lunch, or even exploring an exhibit, IRL just feels different.
Our belief is that, as storytellers, these real-life connections and conversations are invaluable. The nuances of engaging with a product, a place, or a person, not only energizes us, but also allows us to understand our work on a deeper level.
Here are a few instances where the in-person aspect would not have been the same if it had occurred on-screen. And perhaps this will leave you feeling inspired to do the same, or reflect on your own experiences where magic (or success!) happened because it happened IRL.
Wrensilva
As the saying goes “seeing is believing”, but when it comes to Wrensilva, it’s actually “hearing is believing”. When the brand opened their first LA Listening Studio, we were ecstatic to finally show editors not only how beautiful these HiFi record consoles were in-person, but also the experience of listening to an album from side A to side B. On one occasion, an editor shared how their visit to the studio had inspired them to dust off their many boxes of vinyl. Another editor and I shared a moment listening to “Sound and Color” Alabama Shakes song that left us both feeling like we had an out of body experience. Each opportunity not only led to a sense of delight and revived their love of vinyl, but sparked great conversations about music and ultimately led to fantastic storytelling about the brand and the effect it has on clients.
ReWeave
With beautiful and elegant fashion and home pieces made of the finest interior design textiles, ReWeave is a deeply “tactile”brand. Seeing their one-of-a-kind collections in person changes how you experience them, giving you a deeper appreciation for the design, craftsmanship, elegance and ultimately the sustainable ethos of their brand. The IRL aspect is also reflected in ReWeave’s strategy — they participate in the chicest events, pop-ups and trunk shows (Decades by Cameron Silver, a C Magazine shopping event at the exclusive Tony Duquette Dawnridge residence, Una Malan’s LCDQ event and many others). We happily attend every event we can and always walk away feeling inspired by their latest pieces and in awe of these two *badass* women who founded their brand on the belief that sustainable luxury is possible, all while saving thousands of pounds of textiles from entering landfills each year.
This Old Hudson
Having the opportunity to stay at This Old Hudson offered a whirlwind of founder Anthony D’Argenzio’s signature “Old World Wonder” - bespoke design and styling, antiques, warm hospitality and a local’s take on exploring Hudson. This experience helped us better tell his story and give us an even deeper appreciation for his creativity and inventiveness. If you ever find yourself in Hudson, NY, we highly recommend you book your stay at one of his properties for an unforgettable experience.
Short Stories Hotel
When the Short Stories Hotel opened in Los Angeles, we had the privilege of working with designer Kevin Klein to tell the story of his design approach of this space along other residential projects. While it’s rare to get to tour a residential project (privacy!) - when it comes to hotels it’s an easier ask. After securing a meeting with a regional luxury publication, we set up a coffee and tour of Short Stories where Kevin led us through the hotel, discussing every design detail from the curved sofa in the lobby to the curved millwork in each hotel room. The editor loved the space and it ultimately led to a great feature on the space and a new relationship for the KKD studio for future project coverage opportunities.
Until next time,
Margo + Maddie