The Studio at Wray Ward: Extending Resources to Local Creatives

By Amanda Lea

As they were building their new office space in the Wesley Heights/FreeMoreWest neighborhood, full-service marketing and communications agency Wray Ward wanted to integrate a full-sized studio for photography and video production in their new space to easily execute projects for clients.

Luckily for the creative community, Wray Ward didn’t keep this space to themselves. The agency opened its three giant garage doors of The Studio to the community in September 2020, making the 2,500-square-feet of studio space available as a blank canvas to local photographers, producers and content creators.

Photo Credit: Wray Ward

“The challenges of finding accessible, flexible, functional studio space in Charlotte for our own shoots helped drive our decision to integrate a full-sized studio into our office design,” said Jennifer Appleby, president and chief creative officer at Wray Ward. “We want to extend that resource to local [creatives] who need a space for their shoots.”

The Details

Photo Credit: Wray Ward

The Studio has high ceilings and three 14-feet-tall, industrial-sized garage doors, including one with drive-in access for easy load-in. The doors can be opened for additional natural light. Six skylights located throughout The Studio also provide flexibility by either adding natural light or, with the skylights’ remote-controlled blackout shades, complete darkness.

An adjacent patio extends the space for outdoor use. A green room offers private space for makeup, hair and wardrobe; restrooms are available within the space, and a lounge area is ideal for production meetings, observation and catering. Separate entry to the rest of the agency allows The Studio to be closed for privacy.

“The Studio is thoughtfully planned,” said Laura George, executive producer and studio director at Wray Ward. “It’s comfortable for a full-day shoot and break times in between.”

Wray Ward’s New Office. Photo Credit: Wray Ward

WORTH KNOWING:

  • There are six 20-amp outlets on dedicated circuit breakers and WiFi access which can be used for live streaming
  • There’s also ample parking for satellite trucks and other equipment if needed

LEARN MORE:

The studio can be accessed seven days a week, depending on availability. Anyone renting the space is expected to follow county, state and CDC guidelines for COVID-19 safety protocols.

To book the space, contact the team at thestudio@wrayward.com or fill out an information request form at wrayward.com/studio.

The Studio at Wray Ward
2317 Thrift Rd., Charlotte, N.C. 28208