Today we’d like to introduce you to Marvalace Garrett.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born and raised in St. Louis and moved to Chicago in 2011 to pursue my undergraduate career at Columbia College Chicago. I graduated in 2015 and received my bachelor’s in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management with a concentration in Music Business and Live & Performing Arts Management. My first year, I struggled with what I wanted to minor in; it was between dance, acting, creative writing, and photography. I know that seems like a lot, but that’s where my head was at the time. I was taking so many dance classes, so I figured why not dance? I decided against creative writing and acting because I was already taking outside acting classes and writing was something I felt was precious to me and I didn’t want to take anything away from that. I started writing poetry when I was about nine. It was my way to release and has been an escape for me during some dark days. I don’t write as much anymore, but that’s something I definitely need to get back to. I encourage everyone to write, it’s very therapeutic!
During my time at Columbia, I became really involved my freshman year, and I met some amazing people who provided opportunities for me in the entertainment industry. I joined The Student Programming Board, Black Student Union, and Search Committee for the president at Columbia College. I worked with one of the main producers on all the commencement ceremonies and majors events at Columbia. I was introduced to Grammy U my sophomore year, which is designed to connect students and provide tools and opportunities for all aspects of the music industry. I’m currently in the process of transitioning to a voting member of The Recording Academy, which is exciting because I’ll finally be able to join the process and vote for Grammy nominees each year. My internship, I landed was strictly from a referral, and to this day, I have no idea who referred me, but I would like to THANK YOU.
When I moved to Chicago, my job at the time allowed my transfer, and it was definitely my source of income throughout college along with my gigs I picked up in school. I won’t mention the company’s name, but I worked in retail for five years in which I worked my way up to a managerial position. I decided to take a leap during this exact time two years ago, to quit my job that no longer served a purpose in my life. Honestly, that was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make. I didn’t have anything lined up, but I had been anticipating this day for a while. I chose to not let fear get in the way this time, and other people’s opinion, and make a decision that felt right for me. It was a “now or never” moment. I didn’t tell anyone about this decision, because when you know, YOU KNOW! You won’t need an opinion or validation that you’re making the right decision. Faith was all I really needed.
After quitting my job, I started freelancing in live & event production. I was mainly producing music shows, handling lighting, sound, striking festivals, and just working the overall production. I also took this time to save up for a camera and finally get into photography. I also got into TV production, from working one day as an extra and stand in on one of the major shows that film here in Chicago. I never worked in TV production a day in my life, but I had professional experience in production, so they trusted I could handle a major set. It was at this point, I realized I’ve tapped into almost every aspect of the entertainment industry from the business side to perform.
Has it been a smooth road?
One of the biggest struggles I faced was finding a balance while pursing school full time. I was also working full-time, working at Columbia when I could, interning, and trying to have a social life. It was difficult, but I wanted to finish my major and minor in 4 years and I managed to somehow. I was 17 when I moved to Chicago, that’s crazy to me when I think about it. I didn’t know anyone in Chicago at the time, so I knew it was up to me to make the best of my time here. Time definitely flies. Once I took that leap of faith 2 years ago, I knew it would not be easy, but I knew I was making the right decision.
As a freelancer, some months are busier than others. There’s a hiatus period that takes place in TV production so during that time work is usually pretty slow. Even though I didn’t want to do this at the time, I started driving for Uber to balance me out versus working for someone again. I heard so many stories, which initially turned me off but believe it or not, I’ve met a lot of people and gained clients while driving. Anyone that knows, driving in Chicago is a pain so I wouldn’t say I enjoy it, but it’s definitely convenient and help build my clientele.
These past few years have been some of the most humbling and challenging years of my life. I’ve lost some amazing people who have supported and loved me unconditionally, and sometimes it’s tough not being able to share my journey with them, but I find comfort in knowing they are with me still in spirit. I’ve had moments of self-doubt and wondering if I’m living in my purpose. I’ve spent this past year self-reflecting and I know my purpose is much bigger than me. Of course, I want to further my career, but I want to invest in the community and help build and lift those up around me. Especially artists and creatives like myself who aren’t given any opportunities and are struggling to find a way.
You have this idea of where you want to be in five years, but life happens and things change. I think we all have moments of self-doubt and fear, and that’s ok. You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. It’s important to set goals for yourself, but also understand we all have different journeys and understanding when it’s the right time to move on. If you are just starting your journey as a young woman in the entertainment industry, I would definitely say networking is the major key. If you’re in school, get involved and meet as many people in your field and show interest. It’s a great door to start building your resume. Most of the opportunities I got was simply through building relationships, attending events, and staying in contact with those I met in the industry. It’s not easy breaking into the entertainment industry, especially the music business, but as long you set standards and put the work in, opportunities will come.
If you’re someone who’s thought about taking a leap or just don’t know where to start. If you notice that you’re the only person holding you back… take these three things with you: Patience, perseverance, and faith.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I specialize in acting, photography, and production. I also do commission art from time to time. I’ve been on a hiatus from painting, but I just recently moved and the majority of my apartment will be filled with my art, so maybe that will inspire me. I always get asked which do I prefer more being behind the scenes or performing. And I honestly love them equally. Currently, I’m a little more focused on being the front stage. I just recently signed with an agency here in Chicago, so youI’ll be seeing my face a lot more. All of my acting gigs I’ve done, I’ve booked myself and it was getting a little overwhelming at times plus I just really felt like it was time for bigger roles. I’ve done mostly commercials and print but looking to land roles in TV/film. I’ve prepped for this through workshops, classes, and attending a lot of open calls.
When it comes to photography, I work mainly in events, corporate settings, music shows, TV sets, and I also do headshots for students and working talent. I have studio experience working at different schools taking all student ID and group shots for different sports offered in the Chicagoland and Indiana area. My photography has been published on The Windy City Media Group and The Chicago Reader. I’m currently working on my website where clients will be able to book online, but until then please contact me by email. I’m also working on my studio for those who prefer indoor shoots. I usually work with natural unless I’m indoors and even sometimes for headshots I’m still using natural light, it just looks better when printed.
I’ve never been one to put all my eggs in one basket when it comes to this industry. Some may look at it is all over the place, but for me, it’s just being ready for whatever. I like to be prepared for the unexpected and I think what sets me apart is the experience I have working behind the scenes. I understand the time and effort it takes to put a production together so I can appreciate it more when I’m on the other end. I understand the language, and time management aspect. Also, if I’m sent on an audition and they ask me to sing a note or even learn choreography… I’ll be ready!
I’ve always been hard on myself, and that’s something I’m working on, but I’m most proud that I didn’t give up during those tough times, and I’m grateful for friends and family who always keep me lifted even when I felt like I wasn’t doing enough.
Do you feel like there was something about the experiences you had growing up that played an outsized role in setting you up for success later in life?
Absolutely, I think every experience you go through somehow preps you for the next step in life. I’ve always been very mature even at a young age and I feel like I made some adult decisions growing up that essentially changed my life for the better. I was put in a position to decide on a having a better environment and needed to make that decision for myself (with the help of my dad) and even though I was young, I knew I could do better and deserved a better education.
I think that one decision alone helped me through grade school all the way to college. I wanted to excel in school and I always qualified to take honors courses and I did every chance I could. Those theater and debating classes also helped me with speaking in front of groups of people. I wanted to be a lawyer in my past life so used to feel like I’m one of the great debaters (still do), lol.
Anyway, my childhood experiences have definitely molded me and are the main reason I’m humble today. I’ve never had anything handed to me so I never expect it, but I’m very grateful to those who have opened doors for me. If there aren’t any opportunities presented to me, I create my own, and as cliche, this might sound it’s really what you make it and the effort you put into your craft or whatever it is you want to do.
Whenever I find myself slipping, I remember that faith without work is dead. I lost my grandma at a very young age, and she used to say this all the time. I never what it really meant until I got older. At that moment, I thought that was the only challenge that would come my way, but mean I was young, and I thought life couldn’t get any worse than that. I knew if I could get through that, I could push through anything.
Pricing:
- Headshots – $65 (3 final edits) $25 for additional looks (studio shoots, hair + MUA pricing goes up)
- Events – $75-100/hr or flat rate depending on event
- Photoshoots – Start at $150 – $25 for additional looks
- Set photographer – Half/full day rates
- Events/Production – Full flat day rate
Contact Info:
- Email: marvalacegarrett@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_amourlace/ / https://instagram.com/laceg.photography?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=1km3mobsglosf
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lace.garrett
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/_amourlace
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marvalace-garrett-ba651198/
Image Credit:
Marvalace Garrett
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