about us

SIDE was founded in 2019 by two young creatives with a passion for developing, organizing, and producing meaningful events for people to come together and share their creativity with a larger network. SIDE thoughtfully curates events where individuals can engage in fun and inclusive experiences in Black culture and art. 

Our goal is to create a community where individuals feel safe to allow their true selves to shine; whether it's showcasing their talents, and passions or simply discussing ideas with people they may have never had the chance to interact with otherwise.

SIDE works with clients to curate innovative productions that match their needs and provides value to the community. SIDE provides clients with a strong execution experience of their events while encouraging attendees to connect and build meaningful relationships in a fun and dynamic environment.

vision

a reality where everyone is empowered to explore, express and embrace their creative SIDE and the passions that bring them a sense of peace.

mission

we’re a creative production company independently organizing events and providing support to individuals, organizations, and businesses that are passionate about creativity and community. As artists ourselves, we aim to provide a meaningful platform for other artists and community members to share their unique experiences and exhibit their talents. We aim to bring people together for a safe haven of creativity where we can all cultivate our creative SIDES.

meet the founders

  • Boston-based artist by way of New York, Therlande “TLoui” Louissaint, is a multifaceted creative in the arts. Discovering her love for music at a young age, Therlande has pursued living out her dreams by diving into several art mediums creatively and professionally. Honing her talents and education at Berklee College of Music, Therlande gained the respect of her professors which landed her with a position as faculty at her Alma-mater, also a large role in producing some of the grander shows the college has set forth.

    From being involved in music as a singer, dancer, and creative director to creating platforms for artists through SIDE Presents, Therlande has managed to merge her passion for all the avenues of the arts that bring her joy along with creating a community to share this love with.

    With experience as a creative director and producer, Therlande found her strength in leading and organizing events which she infused into her vision and mission for her personal business ventures. As the Founder of SIDE, Therlande, and Marlyn (Co-Founder) have hosted numerous events throughout the city of Boston. With a focus on uplifting the unsung creatives and small businesses in BIPOC communities, Therlande plans to explore how far her platform "SIDE" will positively impact Boston and the world.

  • Marlyn “Marly” Urquiza is a Boston native of Dominican and El Salvadoran descent. Growing up working at her mother's hair salon immersed this inquisitive tomboy in the beauty and fashion culture from a young age. Countless hours flipping through Vogue, Architectural Digest, and Good Housekeeping led her to her love for art, film, food, music, dance, design, fashion, and photography. She later graduated from Newbury College with a degree in Psychology and a plan to specialize in Art and Play Therapy.

    After taking a year off, Marlyn switched gears and dove into property management where she mastered her administrative, organizational, and management skills. In what, at the time, was an unorthodox setting for her. There Marlyn found her true identity and a best friend turned business partner, Therlande!

    Marlyn always knew she loved to help people and at every step of her journey, she has tried to do just that. Today, she is still flipping through those same magazines, now using them as inspiration while honing her creativity through SIDE Presents. Through creating events and experiences, Marlyn aims to empower others to embrace all of their creative SIDEs