State of Play presents 'Aftermath'

State of Play and Harry the hirer.

State of Play is an agile production and event 
planning business that specialises in creating unique and memorable experiences. What sets State of Play apart is its ability to build teams tailored to the job – bringing together the most qualified people to deliver above and beyond. We approach every event differently, ensuring that the result is engaging, exciting and effortless for our clients. Director Sally Munro is at the heart of every prestigious event and production.

SM: State of Play came about after many years freelancing as a producer overseas and more recently in Australia. The natural progression was to start a business I could call my own, using all of the skills and resources I had built over the years working with agencies, both big and small. We have a thriving and vibrant events industry in Australia and a very welcoming one here in Melbourne. Producers, stylists and of course amazing suppliers like Harry the hirer all encouraged me to make this dream come true.

I love partnering with Harry the hirer, having worked with the team on large-scale projects and their scope to be across all aspects, from furniture hire to production to marquees to a customs team for all the little bits and pieces needed to create a unique event for our clients. We always have the utmost confidence in the capabilities of this company, can-do approach and a true one-stop shop, lets say!

Tell us about your Style Lab, 'Aftermath'?

SM: I’m partial to clean, pared-back design so I thought, 'lets really pare this one back!'. I like everything to be simple and in its place, yet purposeful – at home if the house is clean I can think clearly if not…. well! I think every space needs to talk to you and reflect a little piece of you. State of Play lives here.

What did you want to achieve with this setting?

SM: I want to feel like I have managed to leave a State of Play vibe in the space – as opposed to a single moment in time, I want people to look at the space and, casting their minds to run wild thinking about what might have been only hours earlier. For everyone this will be a different experience, good or bad I hope resonate… preferably good.

What is your favourite element/principle to design with?

SM: Texture is a big one, followed closely by scale. I’m not technically a designer, however, I have always been drawn to and love working with creative people (accountant fiancé aside) and so share a strong interest.

On a recent trip to Japan I was blown away by Walter De Maria's Seen/Unseen Known/Unknown (2000) at the divine Chichu Art Museum in Naoshima. The artist's use of scale here was quite literally breathtaking.

Why do you love your job?

SM: Everyday is different and no two productions are the same, which suits my personality down to the ground. Every client and every job pushes us to create, develop and reimagine, keeps us young maybe … haha!

What are your favourite types of events to attend?

SM: Anything in Art galleries, or has live music, or anything to do with food really … and not necessarily in the order!

Tell us about your favorite Melbourne hangout...

SM: Bomba Bar for the best Spanish tapas, always fun sitting at the bar watching the action, and we love James on Clarendon St, the bao is a must! Park St Pasta is amazing and always the best Italian service, second only to a homemade pasta on Sunday with family and friends.

and a place you go to for inspiration...

SM: I always get inspiration on my morning beach walks, it’s the first hour of the day and normally the only hour that’s all mine uninterrupted, a great time to think. I have extremely talented friends and family who are always a massive source of inspiration, many own their own businesses also which is fab! They just get it.

And finally, your favourite Harry the hirer piece...

SM: Hugo – I could take him home!

With thanks to Flowers Vasette for the florals,  Menus by State of Reverie Studio, Cake by Amanda May Lee, Wall artwork by Bella Curtis and Confetti by Pop Confetti.