TLC’s “Baylen Out Loud” Filmed at Boxwood in Old Town
When I first got the call from a Discovery Plus producer and location scout, I was immediately intrigued that they were interested in using Boxwood as a backdrop location for an episode of their show, Baylen Out Loud. Then my mind started running through scenarios…wait, how long was the shoot? Would it stop my customers from being able to come in? What was the show about? Did they need extras? In truth, what store owner wouldn’t want their shop featured on TV? But it became so much more than serving as background scenery.
A quick Google search yielded TLC’s description of the reality show: “Baylen Out Loud follows the journey of Baylen Dupree, a young woman living with an extreme case of Tourette Syndrome. Despite her daily challenges, Baylen and her family aren't afraid to laugh and embrace the chaos that makes their everyday lives in West Virginia unique. With Baylen yearning for independence, she'll need to rely less on her family as she takes steps toward being in the world on her own.”
I wasn’t told too much, but that Baylen, the lead, would be shopping in Old Town with friends.
My experience with those impacted by Tourette’s is limited. I'm aware of it, but only superficially, not really knowing or having the time to comprehend what it must feel like to have it and not be able to control sudden, involuntary movements and/or sounds called tics.
On the day of the hot July shoot (which lasted most of the day), a production crew of about ten came in with mics, cameras, lighting, crates of equipment and monitors. They also had an air-conditioned production truck parked right outside the storefront. It was very professional, and so interesting to watch from the sidelines.
When I watched the show recently on TLC (Season 1, Episode 5) it all came together. Baylen was shopping and talking to her friends about moving in with her boyfriend Colin, and they had concerns. Because it wasn’t going to be a date, it was going to be 24/7, and he had never seen her in one of her rough moments. Fast-forward, they’re now engaged. And it truly touched my heart, that my shop was able to be a small tapestry in the backdrop of her story which is helping so many understand Tourette’s better.
If you have access to TLC through Discovery Plus, watch the episode, and if you don’t, here’s a clip with Baylen at Boxwood:
This experience is just one of the many things I love about being a small business owner in Old Town. Many days are similar – and so many are not, and really stand out and make a difference.
I hope you’ll stop in at 1205 King Street soon to see some of our new spring arrivals!
There’s a gorgeous tulip tray we’re all in love with; spring Geometry towels, a new napkin print from Hester & Cook and spring pillows. Plus, all diffusers are back in stock and Lafco candles are the newest addition at Boxwood.
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