The Beginning, and First Creatives Meetup

On the evening of June 1st, a new local networking group called Creatives of Carolina, held their first meetup at JC Raulston Arboretum. This inaugural event was open to anyone who considers themselves a “creative,” or was simply curious about the group. The meetup attracted approximately 75 local creatives and was considered a huge success by the organizers.

Creatives of Carolina was founded earlier this year, by local photographers Desmond Burrell, Darnell Tayleor, and Derek VanHorn. The three work together to curate featured photos. Recently, the team added a fourth curator, Nour Dabbagh, who has a huge heart for the local creative scene. Currently a feature account on Instagram, highlighting creatives in both North and South Carolina, the group’s intent is to promote talented producers, regionally.

photographer: @dantastic

models: @onlynoelle, @cash_daddy_ivy, @andreslopezcc, @farrahdreamz

Networking and Collaboration are Key

According to the founders, a “creative” is a photographer, model, hair stylist, makeup artist, fashion blogger, clothing designer, or anyone who owns spaces such as a studio or property where editorial shoots can be hosted. The ultimate goal for “Creatives of Carolina”, is to grow in a way that will reach more people, who can participate in bigger and better events. They believe that great artists should be promoted and recognized. On the flip side, if someone in the community is behaving in a manner they shouldn’t, they want people to know that as well.

According to VanHorn, “Every day there’s a new stylist, model, or photographer who decides to get started in the industry. It’s important to us, for creatives to have reputable connections and a trusted group of people with whom to collaborate. The more we can get artists working together, the more ideas we can generate. I think we’re all better off doing so, instead of feeling like everything is constant competition. It’s good to just get out there and have some fun.”

How to Connect

Future meetups will take place in other North Carolina cities such as Winston-Salem and Wilmington, and eventually, in locations throughout South Carolina.

Click here to follow Creatives of Carolina on Instagram.

This piece was brought to you by Lauren Connelly, contributor for The Papur.