Tara Curran
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I create experiential events for beauty, wellness, and hotel brands. ”
Through events, wellness programs or series (ie. fitness classes, dinners, workshops and panel discussions) I gather communities to help support brand awareness, product sales, food, and beverage or retail.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
After changing my own eating habits and learning about toxic ingredients in traditional products I began to explore the world of wellness and went back to school to become a holistic nutritionist. I started hosting workshops and events at my own home and then was asked to create a wellness related program for the Mondrian hotel in Los Angeles. Working and creating events organically grew from there.
I worked exclusively with The Surf Lodge in Montauk, NY for 3 ½ years as the Wellness Director, hosting 3-5 events a weekend. I also created Skin Food Talk an educational platform that hosted workshops and retreats between LA and NYC to educate others on all natural beauty products, ingredients and how to correlate your skin health with your internal health. I continue to work with unique brands to create one of a kind events that engage consumers and help them become better educated to make mindful purchases.
HOW DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR FIELD?
I am so passionate about sharing my journey to living a mindful life, whether that be what I purchase for my home, my body, clothing, etc. and I take that passion into the work that I do. I truly believe in those I work with so when we host an event or experience the energy that I help create is authentic.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I am currently working on a wellness program for a hotel in Laguna and seeking new clients to help support their brands vision through events and customized experiences.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I like to find creative ways to hold space for others. By paying attention to all the details from the space I choose for an event (for a client), how to decorate, the scent that fills the room, the lighting, the music, etc. I think its most important to create a safe, inviting atmosphere when engaging your audience so they can feel comfortable and included and in turn leave with a memorable experience they will want to share with others.
WE ALL HAVE MULTIPLE SKILLS OR WORK IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD FOCUS ON MORE?
I have been balancing work as a holistic nutritionist for the past 9 years and working for hotels curating wellness events. I now am transitioning out of working as a nutritionist and would like to focus more on events and marketing for brands.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
I would say a consistent frustration is posting on social media. I find myself getting lost in scrolling, comparing, judging, and in turn it locks me up from being comfortable to speak my mind and share.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Be in charge of social media.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Throughout my 20’s I felt really frustrated because I did not have a clear vision for my work life. I felt like everyone around me knew exactly what they wanted to do and we're doing it. However, my path lead me to exactly where I need to be and has brought me so much work/life experience that I'm now able to work for myself and have confidence in whatever comes my way. I would love to go back to my younger self and tell her that its ok to not know exactly what you want to be or do and that not everyone has it figured out.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Art history.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Brands looking to host events, either one-time experiences or a series, community gatherings, workshops, dinners or lunch/brunches, and pop up activations. I want to help brands and spaces send a clear, memorable message to their consumers and help make lasting impressions through one of a kind experiences.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
My ideal client is someone passionate about their product or brand and excited to try new interactive experiences. I love working with anyone in the beauty industry, wellness or hospitality space.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
My rates vary for each project are dependent on the scope of work. I like to meet a new client or at least get on a phone call early in the conversation to go over needs, and expectations so that I can put together a comprehensive outline and budget. I typically work with clients on a retainer but am flexible to the client's needs and what will work best to get the job done.
WHO IS A CREATIVE THAT HAS HELPED YOU ELEVATE YOUR WORK?
Amanda Chase for all things branding
Jillian Guyette for photography
Brittany Cutrone for logo design and website
Brittney Borjeson for all things design
Jobi Manson for photography, and creative direction
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Email is always great, tcurran24@gmail.com
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
By jumping into each day with a cup of coffee, I get my best ideas while drinking that first cup of joe. And by always taking time to get into nature and daydreaming.
This member profile was originally published in June 2019.