Who: Gail McInnes, owner of Magnet Creative, fashion promotions management company. www.magnetcreative.ca
How long have you been attending TIFF?
I’ve been working TIFF for over a decade. Though it may seem glamorous going to all these events and parties, it is the most exhausting time of the year with most days starting at 8 a.m. and not ending until about 2 a.m. I’ve only ever seen two movies at TIFF. For me, being able to sit for two hours with popcorn in hand is a luxury.
What essential items do you keep in your purse during the festival?
-My Blackberry: Uou never know when the perfect Twitpic opportunity will arise.
-Vitamin Water: I have to get some fluids in my system and vitamins; I cannot afford to get sick during TIFF.
-Protein bar: To make sure I at least have something to eat between running around the city .
-Elizabeth Grant’s The Socializer: My little extra 8 hours of sleep in a tube.
-A pair of flats: Standing in heels all day is killer. I’m hoping to get my hands on a pair of Damn Heels to wear during the down time.
What is your best advice for festival newcomers?
If you’re working during TIFF, try not to enjoy the open bars too much. It’s hard to remember that you’re there to work. Limit the booze – there are ten whole days to be running around and a hangover is not a fun thing when you have a thousand things on your to do list and a hundred people to be nice to. If you’re just looking to have some fun and star gaze, the best places to hit this year would be Roosevelt Room, Cheval, Nyood, Brant House, and C Lounge, but it may cost you a pretty penny to get in with inflated cover charges. TIP: Get there early – most of the celebrities only come by for the red carpet arrivals and leave shortly after.
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