Based in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Lori Hammond works statewide as a craft service provider. With over a decade of experience, recent film credits include “Stillwater”, “American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story” and “Killers of the Flower Moon”, currently in production.
How did you get started in the film industry?
My ex-husband is a producer and wanted me to do craft service because of my cooking abilities.
What are some of your most recent successes (credits or accolades) related to your career in the industry?
“Killers of the Flower Moon”, “American Underdog”, “Stillwater”, “Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”, “Unplanned”, “August Osage County”.
What has your career in the state’s film industry taught you?
Looking back at my humble beginnings working in Oklahoma’s film industry and comparing it to where I am at now, I am blown away by the difference. It makes me realize how blessed I have been by the opportunity and unique set of conditions that Oklahoma has fostered. I started my business during a time where there was not a lot of competition, and I was able to land jobs, build my career, and show them what I was capable of. Now that the industry has grown so much, competition is on the rise. Because of the opportunity in Oklahoma, I have been able to claim the title of the most senior and qualified craft service in the state. Oklahoma’s film industry has taught me that where there is work, there is the opportunity to progress even from the humblest beginnings – and there is more work now than ever before.
What is the highlight of your career thus far?
The highlight of my career is being able to witness both the industry’s growth here in Oklahoma and the growth of my own business. Because of the recent incentives made to bring more feature films into the state, the film industry has many more opportunities and potential in Oklahoma than ever before. This sets the foundation for progress in efficiency and creativity in our very own, and very talented Oklahoma film makers. I, myself, have benefited from these opportunities and been able to work with many new amazing professionals in the industry and witness the progress wrought from these recent changes! With many more opportunities comes more need for top-of-the-line equipment. This has allowed me to have a fully stocked trailer so that I can provide more efficient and higher quality craft service, while also enabling me to get as creative as I want with the food that I serve. These are the highlights of my career so far!
What is your favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma’s film and television industry?
The people, hands down. Southern hospitality definitely extends into the film industry here in Oklahoma. I have worked with many people from big cities outside of Oklahoma, and I must say that Oklahoma’s own are the friendliest and most welcoming. I have consistently been impressed by the cooperation of every department within an Oklahoma film or TV production. The respect is felt and given by everyone on set because we all know that production is like a well-oiled machine if its moving parts (every department) receives credit where it’s due. Creating a video production of any kind is stressful enough, so I am grateful to live in a state that creates a positive and constructive environment within its film industry.
What’s the best piece of advice you have for someone starting their career in Oklahoma’s film industry?
Everyone starts somewhere, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, be confident, and make real connections. Those real connections are called friendships because you will continue to run into and work with the same people within this industry. Take pride in your work, because people will see that and appreciate it. Remember that a career in the film industry is not just about YOU, it’s about the efficiency of the production as a whole. Film production is a team-oriented industry, so contribute consistently and give them that ole Oklahoma hospitality and you will find success.
How does someone in your field/department best promote/market themselves to those hiring in your industry?
Do the best you can and your work will speak for itself.
What’s the one item you can’t live without on-set, and why?
Power, because I have a state-of-the-art trailer with many appliances that most craft service trailers don’t have.
Would your career be impacted without the state’s film incentive program? If so, how?
Yes, we have been getting more feature films in town because of it.
Where do you see yourself – AND – Oklahoma’s film industry in the next five years?
I see the film industry growing and growing on a daily basis and potentially taking more jobs on a day to day basis.
What are you working on now or next?
“Killers of the Flower Moon”