Charmed Life

Q&A With Gary Godbey

The inspiration behind the the opening page of our Holiday Gift Guide feature.

Stylist Gary Godbey shares his inspiration behind the opening page of our Holiday Gift Guide feature.

Q: Explain the process of creating the scene for our Gift Guide opener. 

I’m really inspired by vintage things and have been since I was a small child. I’ve always been a collector of things. I like being able to mix simple and vintage with current and modern items. When I talked to Amanda [the art director] about the different gifts that were going to be featured, I immediately knew I pretty much had something vintage that could represent each category.

Q: What is your favorite part of the whole design process?

I think my favorite part of the design process is watching what I see in my mind come to life. It’s like when you picture something in your head and then it actually comes out the way you want it to in person. The satisfaction of being able to express your vision—I think that’s probably my favorite part.

Q: Where did you find the items you used for the shoot?

Some of them were actually mine, from my home. I borrowed [the majority of] pieces from Esther & Harper and Becket Hitch (where I work now). 

[See below for credits.]

Q: Was there a funny moment while creating the display?

I borrowed a [real] deer head from a friend and I didn’t want it to get damaged, so I belted it in the front seat of my car—it looked like a passenger. On my way to the studio to unload, it was during the morning rush hour, so everyone was sitting in traffic. It was a very exciting moment for a lot of people going to work—everyone was waving at me. I didn’t realize why until a couple in front of me turned around and gave me the thumbs up, and then I was like, ‘Oh my gosh.’ Definitely a good start to the day for me. 

Credits: Vintage wagon and skis courtesy of Becket Hitch. Potted trees and fire wood courtesy of Green Fields Nursery and Landscaping Company. Vintage sled and axe courtesy of Esther & Harper. Vintage snowman and green pine trees gift wrap courtesy of Simply Noted. Holly gift wrap courtesy of Curiosity.