Mara Soldinger/E! EntertainmentIf someone were you tell you that your new job will be to manage the production of all red carpet events, you may have a slight freak out moment. Or, you could be Christina Gurtman, who juggles these responsibilities flawlessly and has been working for E! Entertainment since 2008.
We had the privilege to sit down with Christina to learn more about the women behind the scenes who make award show coverage possible. In addition to her career path, she shares with us the best advice she has ever received, as well as the personal care products she won't leave home without. Check out her story to get the scoop!
How long have you been with your company?
I started this job on Emmys 2008. On my first day, I remember accepting the job and then immediately driving to the Nokia Theater to our production trucks. I was as excited as I was terrified!
What was your "big break" in the entertainment industry?
My first "break" in the "biz" would have to be when I was hired as a stunt double on the TV show Wanted. After a few years, I moved behind the camera. Now instead of fight scenes on set, I work with up to 20 plus cameras, multiple production trucks, and sometimes ostriches, tigers, and monkeys for an Oscar segment.
What is the hardest question you've been asked during a job interview?
I've always disliked "What are your weaknesses?" I definitely have a list, but I'd rather work on them than share them.
How can a potential hire impress you during a job interview?
The people who have impressed me the most have had a combination of motivation, positivity, and passion for their work.
What's a typical workday like for you?
I'm either in the office, prepping for a show, or in the studio or on location, managing a show. In the office, I am budgeting shows, hiring crew, renting equipment, working on technical show documents, and meeting with producers. On set, I clock miles on my feet, managing the technical setup of our positions, trucks, and equipment and overseeing the technical aspects of the show. I like having a mix of 9-5 office days, and crazy 17-hour set days.
What's the most exciting project you've worked on this year?
The Academy Awards. It is always our biggest show and the last of our Jan/Feb award season. When we pull it off, it is always such an accomplishment.
What's the best piece of career advice you've ever received?
Slow down, double check your work, and have fun.
Describe your office décor. What was your inspiration? Did you decorate it yourself?
Sticky notes, sticky notes, sticky notes. Unfortunately, I decorated it myself (with my officemate) and there wasn't any inspiration. My desk is more for functionality than decoration. And on set, my "office" is under a production truck.
What do you typically wear to work?
For office days, I like business casual and heels. For me, my outfits start with cute shoes. On set, running shoes are a must. Though, I have cabled in heels, and am proud to say I can do so, just as good as the guys.
How do you unplug and relax during your time off?
Running! Running is huge for me. It's hard to stress about work when you are working hard on a track workout or a 20-mile run. Also, my friends are a big part of my life.
What's your everyday beauty routine?
Moisturizer day and night. Vitamin C serum and sunscreen for day. And never going to bed with make-up on.
What is the beauty product you swear by?
A make-up artist once told me to always at least have the three following: Sun screen, mascara, and lipstick.