From EFAP to Sparks Agency: Two Alumni, Two Career Paths, One Shared Journey

A Conversation with Two Alumni: Different Career Paths, One Shared Passion

Q: Could you introduce yourselves and tell us about your career paths?

Valentine: I graduated from EFAP in 2018. I always knew I wanted to work in the fashion industry. The turning point came when I attended a Chanel fashion show at a young age. What fascinated me wasn't just the runway itself, but everything happening behind the scenes: production, organization, and the teams involved. That's when I realized how much communication and event management goes into creating these experiences.

During my studies at EFAP, I focused all of my internships on the fashion industry, working for brands such as Karl Lagerfeld, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton before joining Chanel's fashion show production teams, where I spent seven years. I first worked on show production before creating a hospitality department dedicated to enhancing the guest experience at international fashion shows.

Today, I work as a freelance event and hospitality consultant for luxury brands while also collaborating with Sparks.

Loann: I also graduated from EFAP in 2018. Initially, my goal was to become a film publicist. I began with internships in television, notably at TF1, before joining Dominique Segall's agency, where I completed an internship, an apprenticeship, and eventually secured a full-time position.

Over the next eight years, I managed the communications strategies for around fifty films while building a strong network of journalists, producers, directors, and actors.

Over time, I specialized in talent management. Today, I support public figures such as Camille Cottin in managing their communications, and I co-founded Sparks.

 

Q: How did you end up working together?

Loann: I co-founded Sparks a year ago to support artists, actors, and public figures with their communication strategies, media relations, public image, and media training.

As the agency grew, we quickly realized we needed complementary expertise in fashion and luxury. Valentine first joined us for a one-off assignment before becoming part of the team on a long-term basis.

Valentine: Loann and I have known each other since our time at EFAP. We always said we would work together one day, although we had no idea when or how. In the end, our professional journeys naturally brought us back together several years after graduation.

 

Q: What does your work involve today?

Loann: I manage communication for our talents across the media: interviews, television appearances, radio, photoshoots, and more. I also provide media training, helping them prepare for interviews across different media formats while anticipating the communication challenges related to their public image.

Valentine: I focus more on talent positioning, brand partnerships, and image consulting. Together with each client, we build an overall strategy based on their current projects, Fashion Weeks, festivals, and film releases to ensure consistent and impactful communication.

 

Q: Is there such a thing as a typical day in your job?

Loann: Not at all. One day I might be at a film festival, the next on a TV set, and then accompanying a client during interviews or press meetings.

Valentine: It's just as varied for me. Between meetings with brands, photoshoots, events, and accompanying talents to ceremonies, no two days are ever the same.

 

Q: What qualities are essential for succeeding in your professions?

Valentine: Professionalism is essential at all times. We work with well-known personalities, but above all, our relationships are built on trust, discretion, and attentive listening.

Loann: Building a strong network is fundamental, but it takes time, work, and meaningful encounters. Organization, curiosity, and adaptability are equally important.

 

Q: What advice would you give to EFAP students?

Valentine: Make the most of your internships. They allow you to explore different industries, meet professionals, and gradually build your own career path.

Loann: Stay curious and fully commit to every experience. In our professions, word of mouth matters a great deal. If you do your job well, new opportunities will naturally follow.

Building Your Network from Day One

The careers of Valentine Frydlender and Loann Greulich perfectly illustrate the wide range of career opportunities available after graduating from EFAP. From fashion to cinema, from public relations to event management, their story also shows how the connections made during your studies can become valuable professional opportunities years later.

Through a teaching approach based on real-life projects, internships, and regular interactions with industry professionals, EFAP helps students build both their network and their future careers.

Would you like to build a career in communication, media, events, or public relations? Discover EFAP's programmes and start building your future in communication today.