We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melanie Morgridge. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melanie below.

Hi Melanie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

​I’ve always been drawn to past time periods and longed to live in the enchanting worlds depicted in my favorite books and movies. When I decided to pursue modeling in New York City it wasn’t driven by an interest in fashion. Instead, I saw it as a way to transport myself into another world through fantasy photography, allowing me to embrace my love of dressing up while using my imagination and creativity.

Most everyday paid gigs involved e-commerce and commercial work, but my real passion was for editorial, high fantasy, and avant-garde style shoots. Due to the scarcity of those types of projects, I decided to create them myself. I brought together teams of creative artists and stepped into the role of creative director by organizing themed photoshoots.

I’m extremely creative and have many freelance jobs and unique hobbies. In addition to modeling, I sell wine charms on Etsy, care for reptiles and exotic animals, perform as a showgirl, act as a liquor brand ambassador, and help manage an upscale cirque-style event company. I split my time between manhattan and upstate New York. I enjoy archery, horseback riding, board games, dancing, and movies.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Fantasy events have surged in popularity, fueled by a post-pandemic desire for immersive experiences and social connection, as well as growing exposure through pop culture, social media, streaming platforms, and gaming communities. This trend encompasses live-action role-playing (LARP), fantasy-themed balls, Renaissance fairs, and other elaborate immersive gatherings.

Since I was already creating fantasy photoshoots on a small scale and saw a growing demand for them, I decided to build a company where others could come, dress up, and bring these imaginative worlds to life through photography.

EVERLORE (n): A magical repository of ancient tales, mythical sagas, and timeless wisdom, embodying the enchanting essence of fantasy and the echoes of bygone eras.

Everlore Events brings fantasy to life through immersive, themed photoshoots inspired by fairytales and historical eras. Set against enchanting landscapes across the New York area, our events invite participants to step beyond the ordinary and into a storybook realm.

Whether you’re a lover of fairytales, a history buff, or simply someone drawn to the magic of imaginative worlds, Everlore offers a space where you can become part of the tale.We encourage guests to wear their favorite costumes and step into character—whether you’re drawing inspiration from beloved books, iconic films, historical eras, ancient myths, or your own imagination… from fairytale royalty and medieval warriors to woodland creatures and original fantasy creations.

Our events aren’t just about the experience—they’re about the people. Each one is a chance to connect with fellow dreamers, artists, and creatives, build friendships, and collaborate on something magical. For designers, makers, and small businesses, Everlore also offers meaningful exposure through styled content, professional media, and creative community support.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

My goal with Everlore is to build a community of creative professionals, small business owners, and fantasy enthusiasts, providing a space to unleash creativity and self-expression. From my experience in the industry, I’ve seen that even in creative fields, artists often get stuck in repetitive, non-creative work—corporate shoots, the same bridal hairstyles, or standard makeup looks. When I proposed themed shoots that encouraged artistic freedom and out-of-the-norm concepts, the response was overwhelmingly positive.

There’s a wealth of talented artists out there with unique niches, especially in the growing world of fantasy events, and Everlore provides a space for that creativity to flourish. I love featuring local artists and brands with a fantasy-inspired touch at our events. Their creations are showcased in high-quality, professionally styled photoshoots and can also be included in thoughtfully curated goody bags. These projects are fully collaborative, offering a chance to present your work in an immersive, storytelling environment.

In exchange for participation, collaborators receive high-resolution, edited photos of their products in styled shoots; video and behind-the-scenes footage with and without models; full credits on social media and marketing materials; and, if attending in person, the opportunity to create their own content and even receive professional headshots.
Examples of some artists I’ve been able to collaborate with:

Traveling Bohemian – Handcrafted crowns, headdresses made of natural materials
Trollbinde Magic – Ethereal, story-rich jewelry inspired by nature and animals
Gate and Garden – Seasonal, small-batch apothecary creations
Fae Isle Floral – Enchanting floral designs infused with fantasy
Frost and Ember – Premium leather armor, accessories, dog gear, and fantasy-inspired pieces
Firelight Fables – Immersive candles and scents inspired by stories and roleplaying adventures

Full list including photos: https://www.everloreevents.com/collaborate

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I want to create magical experiences where people who feel overwhelmed by the world or out of place in society can come together and escape for a while. Everlore is a space to disconnect from stress and reconnect with creativity, imagination, and like-minded people. It’s about offering a break from reality—and the chance to step into something fun, creative, non-judgemental.

Some words / quotes that have inspired me:

Hiraeth (n.) a Welsh word which mean a homesickness for a home to which you cannot return, a home which maybe never was; the nostalgia, the yearning, the grief for the lost places of your past.

“A wild longing for strong emotions and sensations seethes in me, a rage against this toneless, flat, normal and sterile life” -Herman Hesse

“Understand me. I’m not like an ordinary world. I have my madness, I live in another dimension and I do not have time for things that have no soul.”
― Charles Bukowski

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.everloreevents.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everloreevents/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Everlore-Events-61557427273892/?locale=ms_MY

Image Credits

Please let me know which you would like to use and I will provide credits