The Houston-based event planning company, Event Sociétal, were waiting with Disney fans worldwide for the highly anticipated release of the live-action film, Mulan, originally scheduled to reach theaters on Friday, March 27, 2020.
Due to the developments of COVID-19, the film’s release was delayed, but that did not stop this event planning team and its talented vendors from moving forward with their innovative Mulan-inspired photoshoot.
Dinner table, Photo by AMA by Aisha
“Through the darkness, you find beauty,” said Founder and Creative Director of Event Sociétal, Arin Segall. “This theme plays throughout Mulan, and is the inspiration behind our styled shoot. When we are faced with hard times, we must always look for that glimmer of hope – any bit of positivity we can. When we first started designing this shoot, we had no idea just how much more this theme would resonate for us as we’re all learning to navigate these difficult times. Our goal was to not only celebrate the film, but to honor Asian culture and its extraordinary beauty. We all feel it’s something that’s needed now more than ever.”
Elegant stationary. Photo courtesy of AMA by Aisha
The team worked alongside a collection of elite event professionals including floral designer, Andy Hopper of Texas-based H-E-B Blooms, and catering and food styling by the renowned chefs, David and Michael Cordua of David + Michael Cordúa Events. Each donating their services to bring this vision to life (full list of vendors provided at end).
The shoot location was the Asia Society Texas Center, an architectural marriage of east and west. Designed by Japan-born, Harvard-educated Yoshio Taniguchi, it combines contemporary international design with an understated elegance and serenity one associates with Asia. Its 40,000 square feet is spread over two stories in Houston’s Museum District, resulting in a low-slung profile that fits comfortably into its residential surroundings. When it opened its doors to the public on April 14, 2012, the Center took its place as an iconic addition to Houston’s architecturally rich cityscape. For more information on its history, please visit: https://asiasociety.org/texas/about-building.
“We are delighted to be part of this Houston Mulan-inspired photoshoot celebrating the upcoming film release," said Bonna Kol, President of Asia Society Texas Center. “Asia Society exists to inspire a better understanding of our diverse, interconnected world. This relatable coming-of-age story showcases not only the Chinese culture, but how our human struggles are more alike than different.”
Dumplings. Photo by AMA by Aisha
The film further highlights the themes of “loyalty, bravery and truth,” all qualities humankind is working to maintain during the COVID-19 global crisis. “Our company strives to not only create lasting memories, but to create designs so innovative, they leave a lasting impact for years to come, said Segall. “It is our hope as a team of professionals who have all been deeply affected by this challenging current business climate, that we come together and continue our artistry, and to all find inspiration at every turn. We look forward to the future release of Mulan, and for many more creative visions to come.”
About Event Sociétal:
Through event design, planning and management, Event Sociétal is a growing team of passionate event design professionals empowered to make a difference in each client’s life. Working with corporate and non-profit events, product launches and styled shoots, the company has the seasoned experience to know what works and what doesn’t, while providing exceptional customer service at every level. With hospitality at its core, Event Sociétal offers a streamlined process and trend-forward designs that not only push boundaries, but are inspired by a vast collection of creative vendors who also think outside the box. For more information about Event Sociétal, please visit: www.eventsocietal.com.
Professionals Credited in the Collaboration of this Shoot:
Creative Direction: Arin Segall of Event Sociétal (@eventSocietal)
Venue: Asia Society Texas Center (@asiasocietytx)
Photography: AMA by Aisha (@amabyaisha)
Floral Design: Andy Hopper of HEB Blooms (@heb.blooms)
Catering and Food Styling: David & Michael Cordua Events (@dmcorduaevents)
Cake: Sweet Nation (@sweetnation_co)
Trussing: 360 AV Design (@360avdesign)
Paper Goods: Presutti Design (@presuttidesign)
Calligraphy: So Crafty Studio (@socraftystudio)
Tableware Rentals: Swift + Company (@swiftevents)
Social Media: Bea Connected (@beaconnected.me)
Public Relations: Kristin Weissman (@KristinNoelleWeissman)
