Seriously?? Of course we would! What fun!
That set off a series of phone calls, video taped interviews and follow up discussions. The production company loved the idea that this is our 'Second Act'. I started SoPo Cottage as an encore career - after having spent decades working for big corporations. And even though all the other shows feature much younger hosts, they thought this was a unique angle and was worth taking forward.
Ultimately, after many many weeks, they created a 3 minute video to pitch to the HGTV execs. That let them see how Richard, Mike from Waterhouse Builders and I interact on camera.
It was a bit unclear when the presentation would happen to HGTV, but I have to admit, I was on pins and needles to find out how it came out.
I finally got the follow up phone call and the feedback was 1) they loved us, 2) they loved Maine and 3) they loved the old cottages and the work we're doing. But they have way too many husband and wife shows. They really want more extended family involvement.
Producer: Do you think Mike could be your son or nephew?
Me: Uh, no. I don't think so. And I'm not sure our daughters would appreciate suddenly having a brother!!
Producer: Would either of your daughters want to move to Maine and work with the family business?
Me: Nope, I don't think that's going to happen! They are very happy with their own careers in different cities. (truth be told, I took the kids on a tour of our latest projects when they visited a few weeks ago. Despite growing up with constant renovation projects going on, they couldn't get out of the houses fast enough!)
So we left it at that. She said if the kids ever come join SoPo Cottage, to be sure and let her know. But for now, it looks like we won't have a TV career :-) Ah well, we have enough going on already!
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I think it's funny that a "reality" tv show needs to have a manufactured angle. Oh well. :)
ReplyDeleteI think it is HGTV's loss!
ReplyDeleteThanks Hima - I would have loved to do a show!!!
DeleteOh how ridiculous! Sure there are husband and wife shows, but they also have twin sisters, twin brothers, mom & daughter, etc. I don't care about a family connection- I care about the houses and if the personalities are friendly and interesting (and we know you would be!)
ReplyDeleteThanks - but they were pretty firm that it had to be a bigger family than just Richard & me!
DeleteCan I be your adopted daughter??? I'll be there in a flash!! :-)
ReplyDeleteFigures that HGTV would want another "Same recipe/Same format" show. Personally I would LOVE to see a show done with you and your real crew. Ah well...HGTV.....the sameness continues ;-)
DeleteHGTV needs to have a renovation show either starring or hosted by older individuals. I would love to see how they would design easier access and "age in place" in their renovations. Take heed, HGTV!
ReplyDeleteForget HGTV .. pitch it to your local PBS station! And, I particularly like the 'aging in place' angle; Baby Boomers are big business these days!
ReplyDeleteMaggy
Maggy - that's an interesting idea!! It would be nice to see someone on one of these shows that is looking at downsizing and meeting different needs! Thanks!
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