Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1333810
10 The Costume Designer Winter 2021 As we start off this new year, we have shown how resilient we are. We survived 2020 and we will continue to stay strong. We started last year with optimism for a wonderful new begin- ning—little did we know what was in our future! Work has started back again, and many of us are back to work, learning to maneuver the protocols while working in a pandemic. We have seen the shutdowns that happen when protocols aren't followed, and we must stay vigilant, especially now as the cases are rising. We must learn from this, keep our guard up, and continue to work safely. Costume designers are often asked to perform miracles. Our cover story on the talented team of Tom Broecker and Eric Justian at Saturday Night Live is a testament to the magic that costume designers do every day. Pulling off a replica costume in 89 minutes is remark- able, but receiving such amazing press for it is an even greater achievement, as normally we do this and it's just taken for granted. My philosophy as a costume designer is that we need to come up with creative solutions and not just complain about the problem. It's all part of our job. These challenges energize us and sharpen our skills. A couple of years ago, my friend and costumer Steven Constancio reached out to me and asked if the CDG would be interested in working with Lollipop Theater Network. After speaking with Evelyn Iocolano and learning about the wonderful work they do, I knew our members would want to be involved. Costume designers are storytellers, and we can use our talents to brighten the lives of these children and their fami- lies. I am so proud of our members who have participated. We aren't just designing costumes, we are creat- ing an experience and memories that will last a lifetime. The awards season is starting, and even though we are in a pandemic, we must continue to live our lives and move forward. The awards may be virtual this year, but we can still celebrate the amazing work of costume designers. The nomination ballots will open soon. Good luck to you all. I want to welcome our new CDG magazine editor, Alexandra Welker. I am excited to see her bring new energy to our magazine, and continue the legacy Anna Wyckoff has created. The CDG will continue to grow as a brand, and our magazine is our calling card to the industry and our members. I know we are in very good hands. In solidarity, Salvador Perez sperez@cdgia.com PRESIDENT'S LETTER UNION LABEL " The awards season is starting, and even though we are in a pandemic, we must continue to live our lives and move forward. "