Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiki Jones.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kiki. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
While attending graduate school at Georgia State University, it was suggested that I join Local 479 in order to day play (additional crew members hired on a day-to-day and as needed basis) on film productions in the Atlanta area. The first show I worked on as a day player was THE CRAZIES.
It was brought to my attention that because cooking is in my wheelhouse, I would be a desirable hire by other crafty companies. To me, good food is synonymous with happiness. The role of crafty is to address the crew’s food and refreshment needs, in an effort to maintain the well-being and morale of the crew, further assuring their happiness and comfort during long days and longer nights. I quickly realized I was an asset to any crafty company, as cooking is a lost art. Shortly thereafter, day play calls from several local craft service providers came rolling in. In 2013, and after years as a freelance day player in craft service, I was presented an opportunity to purchase my first crafty trailer, allowing me to penetrate the industry.
By providing high quality, delicious foods, and unbeatable service, I was able to begin representing myself and providing the necessary equipment, simultaneously becoming a vendor to the film industry, not just as a worker. It was an expensive leap, but I took the plunge. Slowly, I built a team of individuals and trained them to provide the level of service, cleanliness and hospitality I felt the Atlanta film industry craft service niche lacked. Since then, I have acquired several trailers, and the capacity to manage multiple shows simultaneously, Proudly, my company is responsible for providing crafty for numerous feature films and scripted TV shows in the Atlanta and surrounding areas.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There are often struggles associated in building a brand and a reputation. Your equipment is often damaged or mishandled during use which is expensive. Building relationships with producers and production managers can be difficult. Also, finding quality people that come with a strong work ethic and desire to stand out in the industry is not easy.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Krafty Kiki, LLC – what should we know?
Krafty Kiki, Inc. is a full-service craft service company providing staff and equipment for the department. We specialize in providing healthy, delicious, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and organic snacks allowing all crew members to find what they are looking for on set between catered meals. I’m proud to have developed a remarkable team of people that stand out in the industry. Our trailers are clean, well maintained, and well equipped. Our attention to cleanliness, detail, and providing quality food sets us apart from other crafty companies
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
As an independent contractor, work comes in an ebb and flow fashion. Persevering is key. At times, the workflow is less, and at others we are slammed with multiple shows. Staying the course and always striving to improve, I believe is key.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 678-933-5072
- Email: kraftykiki1@gmail.com
- Instagram: Kraftykikillc
Image Credit:
Julie Yarborough photography-Headshot only
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