“I love working on special events, and the Grammys are my favorite,” says Taylor Lokoff, a production associate based in Los Angeles. With experience in organizing red-carpet events, she finds musicians and record producers much easier to work with compared to other celebrities. Lokoff is among many Syracuse University alumni working in the vibrant red-carpet scene, particularly connected to the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.
These events are more than just glamorous occasions; they are intricate productions that involve a vast network of professionals: producers, directors, stylists, publicists, and the influencers who help shape public perception. Cassie DiLaura, a six-time Emmy Award-winning correspondent for Entertainment Tonight, has covered over a thousand red-carpet events. She likens them to a “real-time cultural pulse check.” For her, it’s storytelling even before the main event.
The excitement of the red carpet lies in witnessing celebrities share a more authentic side. Lokoff recalls, “There’s nothing like the buzz of the red carpet.” This buzz shows how influential these events can be. As DiLaura states, “Millions watch live, and within seconds, moments are clipped and shared online.”
While red carpets have symbolized prestige for years, they’re now increasingly studied in academic contexts. For instance, Syracuse’s Newhouse NYC offers a course on Red Carpet Reporting, which addresses the intersection of fashion and event culture. Students like Isabella Galan, who participated in this course, highlight how important the aesthetic and luxury elements of these events have become.
Galan emphasizes the ethical standards in entertainment journalism, showing that, like hard news, it demands integrity. “I bring integrity to everything I do,” she states, showcasing her commitment to high reporting standards.
Liv Pines, a burgeoning social media and content specialist, voices similar sentiments. Currently working for global brand Sam Edelman, she believes the connection between luxury products and the stars wearing them is undeniable. She thrives on creating content at chaotic events like fashion weeks.
However, red-carpet events are not without their challenges. Anastasia Frazier learned this firsthand at the PaleyFest, one of the leading media festivals. Without security barriers, she managed to immerse herself fully, driven by the advice of her professors to pursue her goals fearlessly.
Internships at various media outlets, including Ladyface Mountain Film Festival, are essential for students like Rachel Yi and Lucy McGovern. They’re gaining valuable experience while in California, showcasing a shift in focus toward practicality in education. “We’re making contacts and acquiring skills that will propel us in exciting directions,” McGovern explains.
Rachel Yi notes the cultural significance of these events. “There’s a lot of money and power involved,” she says, pointing to the unique atmosphere that these occasions create. The experience is not just about glitz; it involves deep storytelling from the red carpet to the screen, a reflection of how narratives evolve in contemporary society.
This blend of education, practical experience, and the dynamic nature of red-carpet events creates an exciting landscape for students today. Engagement with real-world practices not only prepares them for future roles but also enriches their understanding of the media’s influence on culture.
For more insights on the impact of red-carpet events, you can read this report by the New York Times that delves into cultural trends, fashion, and the social media buzz surrounding the entertainment industry.
