Spiro·naut Feature: Vanessa Small
Our Spiro•nauts are dreamers, storytellers & story-makers, creating out-of-this-world experiences that defy gravity. They come from all backgrounds & walks of life, sharing their unique, interesting (and hilarious) stories to introduce you to their authentic selves.
Vanessa Small, Production Coordinator on our Events team, has a special place in their heart for events & experiences. Whether it’s helping create awe-inspiring activations or stopping by roadside attractions off the clock, Vanessa finds joy in everything they do.
Learn more about how Vanessa takes our clients’ visions from idea to reality, the way they capture scientific landmarks, and where you may have seen them on prime-time TV!
What superpower do you bring to work?
I think my special skill is remembering to treat everyone – whether vendor or client, above or below me – with respect and understanding. We are all human, after all, and you never know what else someone is going through. Simple kindness goes further than one may realize.
How do you refine & sharpen your skills?
I think the best way to do this is to make sure you use inclusive language, such as using correct pronouns, person-first wording and amplifying the voice of those less heard.
Another way to grow our empathy is to take accountability. This one is tough sometimes, because it’s easy to succumb to feeling “bad” about yourself, but it’s all part of the learning experience. Noticing my own biases, giving credit to others when it’s unfairly given to me, or even acknowledging when I need to ask for help (when I convince myself I should know the answer already) all lead to learning opportunities & growth.
What excites you about your work & our industry?
I love being part of creating new & exciting things. I’ve been working in events & entertainment in some way for most of my adult life—there’s just something special about being part of creating a real-life experience that started out as just a thought in someone’s head. I think now, more than ever, people go to all types of events to escape the real world for a little while. It makes me happy to know I can help create that moment for them.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve done or place you’ve visited?
I’m also a photographer and my partner and I got hired to shoot the Barringer Meteor Crater in Arizona a couple years ago. We also got to hike the entire rim of it (while carrying some heavy photo equipment, during 50 mph winds), but it was so rad to see & interact with a scientific landmark in such a unique way!
What makes Spiro™ stand out from other agencies?
Spiro is ready to take any challenge, any idea, and make it a reality – and we do so with passion & care to make sure every detail is seen through.
What’s an interesting fact that people may be surprised to learn about you?
I was once on an episode of “Wheel of Fortune.” I’ve been in three music videos & I don’t know how to ride a bike.
What else would you like to share from your world?
Outside of photography, I’m a digital artist, animal lover & big fan of weird roadside attractions.
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