RosanaHamilton Hotel Brand Photoshoot
Our work is 95 percent one-on-one work with clients, but each year we have a couple of projects that take us outside of people’s closets. When the Hamilton Hotel contacted us to work on a photoshoot featuring its newly re-launched space and brand, including chic hotel uniforms designed by Ashley Biden (Yes, Vice President Joe Biden’s daughter), I didn’t have to think long before saying, “yes!” It was such a great opportunity to get our name out and also to exercise those styling muscles we don’t use everyday with our clients.
Photoshoot Prep
Our job had multiple facets that required a high level of precision and organization. First, we were responsible for styling Ashley. That meant mood boarding looks to work with the overall concept of the shoot and brand for the hotel, pulling looks for her to try, meeting with Ashley for multiple fittings, working with hair and makeup on the final look, and working on the day of the shoot to make sure everything was pinned, taped, and executed to perfection.
Second, we were responsible for wardrobing the models for their looks. Ashley had designed new uniforms for the hotel personnel that was part of the big re-launch of the property. Our job was to make sure to fit the models, steam, and prep the looks.
Once I knew the concept of the shoot was very D.C. -but-make-it-fashion, I knew I wanted an Argent suit in the mix. I knew exactly which one too. I wanted color and youthful pop for the shoot, but in a way that communicated power. Our fitting went off without a hitch and Ashley was thrilled with her look.
Fitting the models in their appropriate uniforms was a different story.
The models did not end up showing for the fitting due to a timing glitch. We were left to wing it the day of the shoot with multiple uniform sizes and just a list of number sizes that the models provided us. We kept our fingers crossed.
Day of Shoot
The day of the shoot — as with all photoshoots — was hectic. I am HYPER organized on any photoshoot with supplies, labels, bags, you name it. But, some things you can’t plan for. Like when a model shows up for the shoot — despite an explicit shoe instruction sheet being sent out — with the wrong shoes. Marissa was assisting me that day and she ran out to a retailer down the street and purchased a pair of heels for our model to wear. GSD is the name of the game.
Despite these obstacles, it was a fantastic day full of laughs with wonderful people. We were thrilled to be part of a project that showcased all that is wonderful about the city we love!