LOS ANGELES (AP) -January 11, 2008
At least five freebie-filled events beckoned nominees Friday.
And since the show is off, vendors hoped their wares - which
included jewelry, evening gowns and climate-controlled pet carriers
- might take center stage. A few wondered if gifting was
appropriate this year, but most decided stars need their swag.
"Even though there's a writers' strike, it doesn't mean that we
shouldn't be honoring actors for their accomplishments throughout
the year," said Gavin Keilly, who organized a gift suite in
Beverly Hills. He's donating a portion of its proceeds to the
Writers Guild Foundation, he said.
Still, a few of his usual vendors canceled.
"They didn't feel comfortable because of the strike," he said.
"They didn't think people would come."
Under threat of union picketing and a boycott by nominated
actors, Sunday's Golden Globes switched from a live ceremony filled
with stars to a news conference at which winners simply will be
announced.
But gift spots were bustling as though there was a big event
around the corner.
"We were afraid no one was going to show up ... and we almost
backed out, but it really paid off," said Cindy Lott, who was
touting Xtreme Lashes eyelash extensions at another event in
Beverly Hills. "There were more RSVPs because people aren't at
their stylists."
"I knew the actors would still be supporting the gifting,"
said Susan Setz, who was showing her Wild Rose Tattoo Shirts at a
gift suite in Brentwood, a neighborhood known for its high celeb
quotient. "I looked at it as a wonderful opportunity."
Besides, stars might have extra time on their hands since
they're not preparing for the show - and many aren't working
because of the strike.
They might also need the publicity, said Barbara Moore, who
offered T-shirts and books at a Beverly Hills lounge.
"People are going to want to have their picture taken since
they're not going to be on the red carpet," she said.
Press coverage of the strike and Golden Globes cancellation
brought more attention to surrounding events - another plus for
people with products to promote.
"We're getting more exposure from people wanting to know what
we're doing and why we're here," said Matthew Miller, who was
giving away appetite-suppressant lozenges at the Brentwood suite.
Like awards shows, gifting is a Hollywood tradition. Maybe the
Golden Globe suites are proof the industry hasn't entirely shut
down.
"Stars want to come and celebrate," said vendor Niels
Christiansen. "They support the writers, but they still want to
have fun."
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