'How Did They Do It?' With Extra TV Producer, Patty Serrato!
I met Patty way back before the world changed and we instantly had a lot in common because of our mutual backgrounds in the entertainment business. As a fashion stylist, producers are your lifelines on the job and it's not an easy task! Patty even featured TOPTOTE in one of her vacation style segments when we first launched a few years go! Let's hear a little of her story.....
LA: What is one interesting thing that people may not know about being a TV producer?
P: I think that the consensus around TV Producers is that we wear many hats, and although it’s true, I think people find it interesting how one single TV producer, especially producers in Entertainment news, can be very involved in creating and eventually seeing a segment go to air.
A TV producer looks after each crafted step of the process, from brainstorming the segment idea, to researching, to helping direct and shoot the segment, then writing and collaborating with editors to make sure their vision is fully realized. But as much as the responsibility feels like it falls on one single producer, collaboration in this business is key. TV Production is truly a team effort and those in the business that understand that are the ones that really thrive.
LA: During your professional journey, what is one mistake you made that you learned the most from?
P: I made the mistake of overstepping my position and made a decision on a segment to air, that wasn’t exactly needed for our show at the time. I learned that what I should have done was seek consultation from executives and seek that collaboration that is so important in TV Production. I think that as a creative, sometimes we get so stuck on something and the determination to see it through overpowers the first rule of production, and once again that is collaboration and teamwork.
LA: What is one thing you did that put you on the right path to be successful in this career?
P: As unglamorous as it was, I showed an interest in doing the work that no one wanted to do. The data entry, the ability to spend a good amount of time to find the perfect shot for an editor, or even asking what I can do to help production on the daily. It was the little things that made a big impact for the show, and it also helped display the type of work ethic I had to my bosses which eventually led to my successful career as a producer.
LA: What are you most proud of at this moment?
P: At this moment (because of Covid), I am proud that I was able to figure out the balance of work and home life. I’m proud that I can still be successful at my job and be successful at being a mom and wife and managing a home. It isn’t easy everyday, but it’s doable and I’m very proud I figured it out.
LA: Your go-to beverage after a long week (specifics please!)?
P: Hands down… a spicy - Tajin Rimmed - Margarita with 1800 Coconut Tequila
+Follow Patty here
+Extra TV website here
