Case Study

Lessons & Carols
BTS Video

This short film offers a behind-the-scenes look at Northwest Choirs’ most iconic concert series. More than just a performance, Lessons & Carols is a logistical feat led largely by students, and I saw an opportunity to tell that story in a fresh, emotional way.

Project Challenges

Challenge #1

Reveal the Process

With over 100,000 radio listeners and 10,000+ in-person attendees, Lessons & Carols has major visibility, but the unseen magic is how much of it is led by the kids.

Challenge #2

Inspire Giving

The video needed to feel heartfelt and cinematic first, with a natural pivot to a year-end donor appeal without sounding like a fundraiser.

Challenge #3

Make It Evergreen

This had to be evergreen content that could be used every holiday season across platforms, without feeling tied to a single year.

How I Made It Happen

Strategy

I pitched this concept from scratch based on what I knew the organization needed. The idea was to create something emotionally resonant that would stand out from typical concert promos or donor asks.

Production

I filmed across multiple concerts, focusing on candid setup moments, processionals, and behind-the-scenes coordination. The students build everything from scratch, and I wanted to show that effort.

Editing

I used narration to guide the story. The first two thirds are observational and warm. The final third invites viewers to support the choir, closing with a gentle but clear call to action.

Project Outcomes

Helped raise over $120,000

Shared via email, website, social media, and YouTube

Gave supporters a personal look at mission

Video is reused each year

"Jordan, this is such a beautiful video. It’s such a meaningful glimpse into everything that makes Lessons & Carols special. I loved seeing the kids in action.”

Maria Johnson

Former Executive Director, Northwest Choirs

See The Video

Designed and built by Jordan Smith