I make films like a girl. Well maybe not me, personally. See last night, Thursday, August 18, 2016, instead of hosting my weekly Entrepreneur Social Club here at modernized historic venue NOVA 535, I spent time with WIFT. WIFT who? Women In Film and Television. WIFT. WIFT Florida, specifically, tonight. The lovely ladies were here to schmooze, laugh and connect. To network and expand their contacts, and to enjoy time with fellow filmmakers, producers, directors, actors, cast and crew. Feature films and docs, web series and TV commercials, shorts and indie scripts, there was a bit of it all. The common thread here was the love of film. Everyone in attendance, no matter what set, or direction they’re coming from, are ALL film LOVERS. And some are lucky enough to do it for a living. Ready Set, ACTION!

Director and Screenwriter of “Cold Dead Hands” Lynne Hansen easily won the coolest T-Shirt award by sporting her I Make Films Like a Girl. After strolling through our gorgeous brick and bamboo courtyard, guests entering NOVA were all greeted warmly by the delightful Melissa McNerney. Then immediately introduced to the yummy smells and tastes of Asian Street Food from sponsor Hawkers, a fabulous new restaurant here in DTSP, located at 1235 Central Avenue. 

One of tonight’s most colorful speakers was Rich Roddman, Color Corrector, of Silver Box Studios. Rich demonstrated the latest and greatest with DaVinci software. Who knew there was so much more to learn about color, thanks Rich! Was nice to see my pal Sophia, as lovely as ever. Good luck with your new salon!

Towards the end of the evening, people are mingling and enjoying each other, and I’m zipping around taking photos, and while they (below) were waiting for their DP to get his shot just right, I swooped in, BAMM!! SMILE!! BOOM!! FLASH!! POW! like the old Bat Man TV Show and was outta there with my prize photos!

Canadian filmmakers Marie-Claire Marcotte (above left) and Rebecca Nicole Davey (below facing us) were visiting from our fav northern neighbor, as they’ll be shooting some of their upcoming web series right here in St. Pete, a bit sunnier and warmer option to their lovely Toronto. Best of luck ladies! Let us know how we can help! PS for those not in ‘the know’ TIFF is one of the world’s BEST Film Festivals. I’ve been four times, and LOVED IT!!

I’m still unsure if I need to genuflect when in the presence of my longtime pal Tony Armer, now the Commissioner of St. Pete Clearwater Film Commission. The ladies did always surround him before he was crowned. So it must be the brains, charm, and handsome rugged good looks, and not (only, haha) that he may be able to get you a part in that upcoming film….. Tony!!

I hope you all enjoyed our Thursday night adventures. Join us Thursdays for the Entrepreneur Social Club, 6:00 – 8:30 pm most always here at NOVA, except when we’re tossed out onto the streets, most willingly, by the lovely lady filmmakers! And if you are a lady in the film world, reach out to Rose Rosen of Casting by Rose, our hostess with the mostess (below right) and join her and the ladies of WIFT. Again it was a fabulous night, and as always it was great seeing our charming pal Jonathan Van Dyke (below to the right of me). See you all at our wild, annual adults-only Halloween party NOVAWEEN!!

PS If you are looking to host your own event here at our world-class historic venue NOVA 535, you can get started here or email sales(at)nova535.com. Ciao for now!