SWS Member Highlight: Twelve21 Media
Jeremy Ricci, co-owner and founder of Twelve21 Media, utilizes Switch Wicked Studios for a photography photoshoot.
Switch Wicked Studios has become a hub for many creatives. Every studio member uses the space a little differently. The versatility of Switch Wicked Studios allows for different kinds of creators to thrive in the same space.
Jeremy and Shayla Ricci operate Twelve21 Media, an independent marketing agency specializing in full-service video production and photography. They found Switch Wicked Studios to be a valuable resource for growing their business, from using a private studio for equipment storage to using the open community art space for photography and video shoots.
Twelve21 was born as Jeremy and Shayla chase their passion of connecting people and telling compelling stories. They understand that video is more than just a series of images and that telling meaningful stories has an impact. Each project is built on a foundation of communication and collaboration. That same passion extends beyond their client work to causes they care deeply about. That commitment to community is one of the reasons Jeremy and Shayla also serve on the Switch Wicked Studios board. As a growing business, they know firsthand how valuable an accessible creative space can be.
Jeremy and Shayla shared how Switch Wicked Studios supports their business goals and how they hope to see the studios grow.
Q: How do you utilize Switch Wicked Studios?
A: We rent a studio space in Switch Wicked Studios to store and maintain our filmmaking equipment. We also utilize the space regularly for both photo and video shoots, and on rare occasions, for Jeremy to practice his saxophone.
Q: What does your workflow look like when you use Switch Wicked Studios?
A: Depending on the day, we're either organizing or creating! We'll typically come in a day before a shoot to build our camera rigs, charge batteries, and prepare storage media so we're ready to go. On shoot days, we arrive an hour or two early to compose our shots, set up our lights, and maybe mingle with a few creatives on site. Having our equipment on-site is really convenient, and the elevator makes location shoots a breeze!
Q: Why is a space like this important for your business?
A: Having access to on-site storage and an affordable studio space allows us to economically and conveniently serve our clients, execute our vision, and explore our creativity without significant overhead costs. Outside of those considerations, a significant highlight is the creatives we've connected with at Switch Wicked Studios. It's been a great resource not only for inspiration but also for networking and collaboration on personal and professional projects.
Q: What would you tell other creators that they might not realize about Switch Wicked Studios?
A: The community is really great. Connecting with other creatives and community members opens up so many opportunities for collaboration, partnership, and mentorship. It's been really great to exchange ideas with other creatives, meet new friends, and learn about new mediums and approaches. We also love the variety of events hosted here! There's a little something for everyone to get involved with, like Film Club, Independent Craft Nights, workshops, concerts, and more. If only we had more time!
Q: Why did you decide to get involved with Switch Wicked Studios as a board member?
A: We saw a need in the community for an accessible, inclusive, and affordable creative space. We knew we had unique perspectives, experiences, and connections that could benefit the community and help us realize our goals for this space. We care deeply about creative expression and entrepreneurial spirit, and being able to help build a space that fosters both of those endeavors was a no-brainer.
Q: What excites you most about the future of Switch Wicked Studios?
A: Opportunity! Whether that's selling your artwork at an art market, exploring music at a fiddle jam, or connecting with other creatives and professionals, we hope that Switch Wicked Studios will continue to foster that opportunity and allow those people to flourish. A lot of people are stuck on the outside looking in when it comes to creative endeavors, and so we're excited for Switch Wicked Studios to be a space where those windows are replaced with doors to help people take that next step and explore new artistic pursuits!
