Elizabeth Wheat has worked for 15 years in Oklahoma and Los Angeles under Local 484 and Local 705 Motion Picture Costumers as a Shopper, Fitter and Set Costumer primarily in network series. Wheat served as a set costumer for two seasons on “Criminal Minds” and “Will & Grace” as well as a key costumer on “JONAS” and “Scrubs.” Additionally, she has shopped, stitched, bloodied and fitted background talent on “My Name is Earl,” “CSI NY,” “Mad Men,” “Dexter,” “The Orville,” “Tulsa King,” “1883” and “Lawmen: Bass Reeves.” Additional Oklahoma film credits include “Reservation Dogs,” “Reagan” and “American Underdog” among other motion picture, television, commercial and music video credits.
How did you get started in the film industry?
I came from backgrounds in live theater and fashion design. My first Union job was on “Will & Grace” as Set Costumer.
Did you have any formal education or training related to the film industry before starting?
I have a BFA in Fashion Design and Studied at F.I.T.
What are some of your most recent successes (credits or accolades) related to your career in the industry?
I have been busy this year working on “Lawmen: Bass Reeves” and numerous commercials for Ackerman McQueen, VI, Ghost and Jordan Advertising.
What has your career in the state’s film industry taught you?
It’s a wonderful community that just keeps getting better.
What is the highlight of your career thus far?
I was privileged to work as Costume Designer for Jordan Advertising on a short film for “Mind the Gap,” a board game developed by a small business in Tulsa that uses various generations’ unique knowledge to answer questions in a family atmosphere.
What is your favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma’s film and television industry?
The best part is getting to work with many people on several shows, the familiar faces are great!
What’s the best piece of advice you have for someone starting their career in Oklahoma’s film industry?
Don’t be afraid to reach out to people you want to work with and for.
How does someone in your field/department best promote/market themselves to those hiring in your industry?
Be active in the community and meet as many people as possible.
Are there any local film organizations, resources or events that have been beneficial to you in your career?
The Women in Film mixers organized by Prairie Surf have been fun and helpful. IATSE Local 484 Studio Mechanics covers film workers in OK and TX which has been great.
What’s the one item you can’t live without on-set, and why?
Bring your own surveillance earpiece that is compatible with the walkies used by production, that way you won’t have to fumble with one that doesn’t fit well, and you won’t miss any info for your department.
Would your career be impacted without the state’s film incentive program? If so, how?
It brings shows to OK, so that’s a big help.
Where do you see yourself – AND – Oklahoma’s film industry in the next five years?
More Union Jobs!
What are you working on now or next?
Commercials in the works.
Each featured individual or business is given the provided questions to answer in their own voice. Other than formatting and grammar, the answers are personal to each featured voice, and are not provided by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.
