Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Donna Schultz & Sharon Sampson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Donna Schultz, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
1 Donna: This a is a bit of a two part for me. Work ethic is so incorporated into my purpose… seems like it always has been. Purposes in my life have ebbed and flowed but my career path has led me to this point in my life. Passing on, and in a way, paying forward all the knowledge, mentoring and skill I have gained through the years. My education, my career, and listening to those I respected in my chosen field have built the wealth of knowledge I have for what I do. My work ethic came from watching my father’s hard work and my mother pursuing a dream and working hard to achieve it.
My parents support for what I chose to pursue was a launch pad for sure but I had to work for it, but honestly, that was what was exampled to me, the only way I knew.
Passing on knowledge and that mentality is important to me, I don’t want it to go quietly to the grave with me.
Sharon: My goal when moving to los angeles was to work in the film industry. When I started, there was no training, so each time I got a new job, I pretended to know what my duties were. Really, I was studying everyone else and working hard not to miss a step. I would not recommend that method! This is why we have created our training program, so others do not have to start the way Donna & I started. I believe there is an easier way and we would like to help others with their success thru sharing information, teaching and the follow through of mentoring.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Donna: I am a film and television costumer. I have risen through the ranks within the wardrobe department and have worked for and with some wonderful people. I went to college at Pasadena City College where I learned many skills that transferred well to the theater Dept. at California State Univ., Long Beach. There, I gained even more wonderful skills that have held me in good stead throughout my career. What I did not learn much about was the job of a film industry costumer. In college and out I designed for theater but my entrance into the film world was a bit of a deer-in-headlights moment. When my business partner, Sharon Sampson, came to me with an idea to teach and mentor the next generation of costumers… it hit home for me! Yes, that is important and a missing element the industry. The Costuming Academy was born.
The classes are all online so it is convenient for anyone to fit into their schedule. We currently have 5 classes that explain and guide from the very beginning explaining the industry, our part in it as costumers, some of the jobs and include terminology and tools we use. These 5 get an entry level costumer on their feet and on their way. We are in the process of getting the next 6 masterclasses added to our library. These are a deep dive into the important jobs and things to know as a costumer. We have many more classes we need and want to add.
The response has been fantastic.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Donna: I learned to sew when I was 8 and continued to hone my skills through the years. Learning how to be very well rounded in a number of areas of costume creation. Being a team player. That is huge! Being able to read and understand people, being kind! My advice would be to be eager to learn. Be willing to work your way up, you learn so much on that ride. Don’t miss what you can gain through that process. Listen to those who have more experience than you.
Take some business/marketing classes. One thing I regret and feel would have helped me in almost every area of my career.
Sharon: My Advice on Knowledge
In my attempt to succeed, I studied as much as I could find regarding costuming. I knew all the stores in the city, all of the speciality shops, studied the union rules and industry rules – all to seem like I “knew my duties.”
There are many topics to study for our industry which introduces you to the
needed knowledge. Much is available online. We go over all of that.
In my job, even after years of working in the union – I still learn every day.
Being open and flexible is the best attitude for success.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
Donna: Marketing and business. We are having to learn it as we go along and I would like to be better at that honestly. We are researching, learning what we can online, asking those we know who have some knowledge for advice, and just diving in and doing… seeing what seems to works.
Sharon: Most helpful to Overcome Challenges
Listening & Note taking will help guide you.
Building your skill set so nothing is a surprise.
Know your job & responsibilities.
When you come across a problem, study a solution.
Keep a journal of things learned after every job.
Learn how to network and get along with your team.
Be authentic and work with integrity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thecostumingacademy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecostumingacademy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecostumingacademy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNgWDfE7OiY
Image Credits
Cynthia Shaffer Photography
