Studio on Main was the home of Moving Pictures Magazine and featured a multitude of awesome products from Fred Segal. Gifts from Piano Necktie, PaddyWax Candles, Tito Loco, Vita Coco, Patron, The Painted Nail, Right Way Nutrition, rides on Segways provided by Another Side Tours and genuine leather bags by Cape Cod Leather were showered upon such celebs as Elizabeth Banks, Tommy Lee, Juno Temple and other. Of course, I was there to sample all the goodies as well ☺.

The Walt Whitman candle from PaddyWax Candles smelled amazing. I’ve lit it in my home (now that I’m back) and the fragrance is unbelievable. Vita Coco is quickly becoming my favorite drink. I often purchase coconut water, it hydrates me better than any sports drink I’ve ever had. Vita Coco has several tasty flavors and bottles them in a way that they are conveniently carried anywhere. If you’re craving something a little stronger, the open Patron bar was serving up heir portfolio of ultra-premium spirits and unique activations. The ride on the Segway, compliments of Another Side Tours, was surprisingly fun and easy to get used to.

Watch Dianna Renée try it out here:

The vegan nail polish from The Painted Nail was a hit. The manicure they gave me lasted just as long as any chemical-laden polish I’ve ever used. The guys promoting Tito Loco were so sweet, I’m definitely checking out their show! Cape Cod Leather had an assortment of amazing leather bags and satchels on display. I also discovered Piano Necktie, a T-shirt line out of London with thematic designs to die for.

At this point, you may be wondering, “what does swag have to do with independent film?” As a filmmaker, I asked several of the product lines if they were interested in getting their products into smaller, indie films (like my own). Most of the products were represented by the company owners or the head of their marketing departments, so I was asking the right person – which is a huge deal considering getting to the right person is half the battle when seeking sponsorship or free product for your film. Every single company I asked was completely open to the idea and in fact, many were enthusiastic about it - because that’s why they’re here. They come to promote their products to the biggest audience possible and The Sundance Film Festival reaches their favorite customers.

-By Dianna Renée & Michael Korbic