When I became a writer I thought I’d go places, like the library or on research trips. I never thought I’d make it to a Hollywood after party!
In December I was asked to write the novelization of Moms’ Night Out. Here is the book with, like, the best cover ever! —> And take note of my name on the front!
This week I’ve been talking my readers on a “Behind the Scenes of the Moms’ Night Out Premiere.” You can read Part 1 here. Part 2 is here. Part 3 is here.
So why was the after party so important to me? When I got the invitation and saw that there was going to be one I literally squealed. It seemed so cool and “Hollywood” … something my everyday life is NOT! I’m a mom of six kids and I write books. There is nothing glamourous about that.
Before I go into details, though, I have to tell you that I’m a novelist at heart. My fiction-writing self took it ALL in–the gathering at the Roosevelt, the car ride, the red carpet, the emotions coursing through me at the premiere itself. And I was especially taking notes as the movie ended and the movement to the after party began.
5 Things that Stick in My Thoughts
+ My 3 Favorite People
Things I remember …
1. Our “handler” was there, guiding is the right way. I’m so glad there was someone to tell me where to go and what to do!
2. We were given wrist bands to wear. I thought they were for admittance to the after party. NOT! They were admittance into the VIP area.
3. There is a secret passageway between the TCL Theatre and Lucky Strikes bowling alley where the after party was held. It was guarded by men in suits. (I’m NOT making this up!) As I walked those halls I was wondering who else had walked that same secret hallway. My mind was racing at the thought.
4. It’s hard hanging out in a VIP area when you don’t know most of the people. The actors and producers and such knew each other. People often looked at us as if to say, “Who are you?” Everyone got super excited when I talked about the novelization, though, and John and I had some nice conversations.
5. The VIP area was PACKED! And loud. And one could hardly move. It was literally “rubbing elbows” with famous people.
I did have a few favorite people I talked to though.
Favorite Person #1 Manwell Reyes. Manwell plays “tattoo parlor guy” in the movie, and I have to admit he’s one of my favorite characters. Mostly because he is GENIUS. How do I know? I had the script & I watched the movie, and nothing he said/did is in the script. I asked him about it.
Me: I wanted to meet you because what you did on film was amazing. I know what’s in the script, and all that was all YOU.
Manwell: Yeah, they let me just do my thing, man. It was cool. We had a fun time. I’m thankful they let me do that.
The premiere was the first time Manwell got to see the whole movie, and he loved it! We chatted with Manwell for a while, and later he helped John in the food line as John was trying to balance two plates. And before he left Manwell came over and shook our hands, telling us he enjoyed meeting us. An outstanding guy. And, yes, I did by this Group 1 Crew album.
Manwell is part of Group 1 Crew, and you can read about that here. He’s married to Angelah Johnson who also plays a fantastic part in the movie! Here is Angelah and Manwell on the Red Carpet.
Favorite Person #2 Sheila Erwin
While standing in line, waiting for my ride to the theater I overheard someone pointing out a a woman who walked by, “That’s Jon and Andy’s mom.” Jon and Andy Erwin are the brothers who directed Moms’ Night Out. Jon also co-write the movie.
The week prior I’d read an interview with Jon and I knew that Sheila Erwin had homeschooled her sons. I made a mental note to introduce myself if I had the chance.
The chance came when I was in the VIP section of the after party.
“From one homeschooling mom to another I just have to tell you how much of an inspiration you are to me,” I said. (Okay, the truth is I’m pretty sure I gushed.)
The Erwin brothers are a perfect example of the type of men we homeschooling mamas want to raise up. Men who will use their talents to impact their world for the glory of God. I’m so thankful that Sheila homeschooled in a time when it wasn’t very popular … which made her one of my favorite people.
Favorite Person #3 Mandii Erwin
Also in the VIP room I had a chance to talk to Mandii Ervin, Andy’s wife. Even before I met her in person I knew I wanted to. Why? Because behind every great man is a great woman. I have no doubt that her influence is in every part of this movie.
Moms’ Night Out happened because of the real-life moms in these men’s lives. And it also happened because of wives who believed in their men–an inspiration to us all!
I’m bummed that Mandii and I didn’t get a photo together, but isn’t she pretty?
I also had a chance to talk to some of my favorite blogger/author friends … but I’ll save that for the next post!
How about you? Who have you been thankful to meet recently?
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Tricia, you looked SO gorgeous that night! What a once-in-a-lifetime experience! And I loved who you chose for your “favorite people.” I can’t wait to see the movie! Ken and I got to meet the Erwin brothers at the Gideon Media Arts conference a few years ago and they are truly amazing men. Their mama has good reason to be proud of them, as I know they are proud of her.
Thank you, Deb! I’m so thankful for people like this who are using their talents for God’s kingdom!
What an amazing experience, Tricia. I can feel the enthusiasm permeating your post. What a thrill! I think I would have been a nervous wreck the whole time, but it sounds like you drank in every moment. Good for you!
Karen, I did drink in every moment. It was always like I was IN a novel!
How exciting! 🙂 Thanks for sharing this with us, Tricia – – and what a timely post for right before Mother’s Day, as you pointed out the wonderful job Mrs. Erwin did with her sons.
I have to say that meeting some of my VERY favorite Christian authors at ACFW conferences has been a huge blessing for me. Especially when I realize how very kind they are *smiling, and waving to Tammy, Robin, Deb, and others*.
I pray your Mother’s Day this weekend will be very blessed, Tricia.
Hugs from Georgia, Patti Jo
I LOVE how God gave you this experience, Tricia, and how you used it (and still are!) to bring him glory. Can’t wait to see the movie!
What a night to remember! I so enjoyed reading about it. Best wishes with the novelization!
What a fabulous experience Tricia. You must have been in seventh heaven:) I am definitely going to see the movie and now I’ll chase up the book too! Fantastic to know you’re right up there with Stars on the red carpet!:)
Love getting to vicariously live your experience, Tricia!