C O V E R S T O R Y
Lights , Camera , Fashion !
B Y P E G G I E S H A N G W A
Consider going into a setting where cutlery is neatly placed beside exquisite china . Each element including flower arrangements , table cloths , sitting arrangements , are intricately put together . While capturing the concept of the event , the décor takes on a life of its own . Perhaps it ' s your red carpet appearance , or your photoshoot style . The Zimbabwean events sector is saturated with event planners , but only a few achieve a high-end finish . When it comes to stylists , relatively few achieve it to the level of being recognized by the rest of the African continent .
Craig Zoowie is synonymous with deluxe detailing in both event design and style . The meticulous touch that Craig possesses is a cut above the rest . A known fact within circles is that if Craig did it , then it ’ s perfect ! Every event that Craig handles , there ' s a touch of class . Together , with his team at VIP Hosting , we can see why they are the most sought-after event planners . Revered in the fashion industry , Craig is a stylist and style icon . His dress sense is that of a debonair . His suits , hats and even shoes make him the best dressed man in Zimbabwe , and beyond , hands down . It is an honour to have the esteemed style connoisseur not only on our cover , but to experience the makings of the Craig Zoowie brand .
GMI : Welcome to Groove Magazine International Craig . You embody what we mean when we say that we are Metropolitan , African and Global . You are one of the founders of VIP Hosting and are a luxury lifestyle stylist and event designer , as well as a luxury shopper . Tell us more about yourself . Who would you say Craig Zoowie is ?
Craig : Thank you for having me . It ’ s such an honor . So Craig Zoowie is a tastemaker , influencing my industry and the arts . My affinity for well put together brands , individuals , events and productions has led me to be involved in some amazing projects because of my unwavering eye for detail and tenacity . All the while enjoying what I do daily .
GMI : We have been fans of your work for years , and cannot hide how stoked we are to have you in this issue . Your work is edgy , always very trendy , and has a standard of excellence . What inspired you to choose event design as a profession and do you have a philosophy around this ?
Craig : I attended a couple of amateur events and I was not impressed as I had wasted my look and time . I have always loved beautiful things . I knew exactly what had to be done and how . Hence , when I design an event , I ask myself how I envision the guests feeling when they receive the invitation , the wording on it , the textures , and the day they walk into the space we have designed and styled . It should ALWAYS be an experience when attending an event we are involved in . And the guest should also feel the pressure and respect the host .
GMI : You have worked in Bulawayo and Harare , founding VIP Hosting , and now use South Africa and
Europe as a base for your work . What have been the upsides or downsides of that , and do you miss anything about home ?
Craig : Honestly , we do not have a base ( laughs ). We work anywhere as long as our phones are on and there is great wifi access . Expanding the business and opening up more divisions within VIP Hosting has always been in the pipeline for us . It has not been easy trying to penetrate the markets , but when your business becomes your life , they will buy it . It ’ s a matter of knowing who you are as a brand , staying true to your ethos and putting your best foot forward always .
GMI : Walk us through your design process . Others have a place they go to be creative . Are you in any way like that too ?
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