Walking with success- Errol Isip

Interview by: Charmaine Hernane

Success behind closed curtains, one may delude over the fact that being successful in a field such as events would be that they are a constant presence in the eyes of the public, maybe vocally or physically. But what about the behind the scenes, how the lights came to be just the right tone, how the music became a symphony to bring the whole event to fruition, how just the perfect number of props were placed. 

Such is the success and achievements of Errol Isip with hard work and determination with his passion carrying him over hurdles, dwelling behind limelight and proving his vision with exceptional taste whilst curating lasting memorable moments with dedication and fervor.

For those who do not know, please introduce yourself.

I am an Events Producer, Casting Director, Fashion Show Director and Model Coach with over 20yrs experience. I specialize in Luxury fashion and produced shows for Armani, Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta, Brunello Cucinelli, Charlotte Olympia, Coach, DVF, Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, Marni, McQ, Roger Vivier, Stella McCartney and many more.

Can you tell us a little bit about your events and fashion journey from Philippines to Dubai and now in LA?

I started as a production assistant in the Philippines while I was still in college. I initially wanted to become a doctor, but during my freshman year, I did a TV commercial with a small role where I met Robby Carmona who became my mentor. I worked for him until I finished college. I then opened up my events and modeling agency called The Velvet Rope, where I was one of the first agencies to fly international models to the Philippines like Mark San Diego from US, who became a Myx VJ. I then moved to Dubai in 2006 and worked for an Events Company until in 2009, I was hired by Al Tayer Group. I started from the bottom as an Events Coordinator, even though I have enough experience to be a manager. Just after 2 years, I got promoted as an Asst. Events Manager and then after a year, I got promoted again as the Events Manager for the Luxury Division where I handled 20+ fashion brands at the same time and I was able to produce the biggest fashion event in Dubai with designers flying in for the event like Dolce Gabbana, Stella McCartney, Paul Marciano of Guess, and so many more.

What made you realize that this is what you are meant to do?

At a very young age, around 12 or 13yrs old, I already love Fashion from magazines like Vogue and shows like Fashion TV. I was also active in school arranging proms and theater plays, so when I had the opportunity to work in fashion events during summer when I was in college, that’s when I realized that event is for me and not being a doctor. 

What were the challenges you faced pursuing your passion for fashion? And how did you overcome them?

There were a lot of challenges that I faced in my career. It wasn’t an easy path to reach where I am now. When I 1st opened up my company in the Philippines, I was very young, fresh from college and no business experience, so it was trial and error. I was also jealous of my friends who were having fun every weekend and by the end of the month when they receive their salaries, while I had to make sure to pay my employees first, before I could spend some money. Then when I moved to Dubai, I had to do different events which are not fashion related at all, but I had to do it because it is my job. I’m just lucky that after the recession, I found Al Tayer.

As a casting director, what are some of the qualities that you look out for, when it comes to working with talents from various creative backgrounds?

It really depends. If I’m casting for a runway show, then their walk and confidence are really important. Height comes next if the brand or designer has strict guidelines because of their clothes, but right now there are a lot of brands that are looking for diversity, so any size, height, age and disability doesn’t matter, but it’s more about their personality and how they command the runway. I believe in diversity and inclusion that’s why I produced Modelhunt International, which is the world’s most diverse model search.

You seem to wear different hats and you are equally successful in all aspects. Being an Event Producer, a Casting Director, a Model Coach and a Fashion Show Choreographer, you must have a favorite hat to wear.  Which one is it and why?

My 1st passion has been Fashion Shows, so fashion show choreography would be my favorite and next is casting director. I love thinking about a great concept for a fashion show and how I can make the collection alive with choreography that is not boring and finding music that compliments it.

Success doesn’t happen overnight; do you consider yourself successful now?

Success, like happiness, is relative. I could be a millionaire, but still not be happy, so same with success, I could achieve everything I want and still want more. I would say that I am successful because I was able to do big things in my career, but I feel that I am just starting and there’s many more that I want to do.

Is there any project that you are currently working on? What do you want the audience to keep an eye out for?

I have LA Fashion week by 1st week of April, same time Victor Magazine – April issue will be released and Michael Cinco will be our opening designer. I have been planning to do a show with Michael here in LA since 2018 and there were just many factors that didn’t sync and then COVID happened, so I am very excited that it’s finally happening. Modelhunt International is also happening in New York in July, so that’s also something big for me and eventually I will have representatives from different cities in the world who will compete here in the US. 

Short FUN Chat

3 Things You Would Pack

1. Hair Product
2. Facial Wash
3. Toothbrush

What’s On Your Playlist

Chill/House Music, Dance and Pop Music

The Book on Your Bedside Table

None – I Have My iPad Or Phone Where I Read Stuff. 

Something You Can’t Live Without

My Life Partner and Our Dogs