Jaret Martino is raising deserving voices through Love Wins Productions

By M. Roman

Jaret Martino is the founder of Love Wins Productions, an original content and third-party production company, designed for the 21st century's changing media landscape. With a focus on women's empowerment, diversity, and inclusion and LGBTQIA messages, BELLA spoke with Jaret to learn more about his mission to raise unheard voices and share stories of empowerment…

What is the origin story of LoveWins Productions?

Love Wins Productions, Distribution, and Film Festival, commemorating a decade in Spring 2024, was established with a vision that resonated with my heart and a drive to provide a platform for marginalized artists.

The festival spotlights themes such as Women's Empowerment, LGBTQIA+ issues, Diversity and Inclusion, and Health and Wellness. LoveWins prioritizes creating awareness and fostering connections rather than solely seeking accolades. It stands out for its emphasis on celebrating filmmakers, screenwriters, and artists, offering them opportunities to showcase their work, network with industry professionals, and connect with potential collaborators. The organization aims to champion diversity, with a focus on hiring diverse casts and crews. Love Wins has also collaborated with numerous organizations and corporations that share its mission, including a partnership with the organization STEP UP.

I know you love all the films you’ve been able to feature throughout the years, but is there one that stayed on your heart?

The first project, DRIVEN, centered on themes of Women's Empowerment and featured women sharing their stories of what motivates them. This project inspired the company's mission and collaboration with the non-profit organization STEP UP. Love Wins has since partnered with numerous organizations and corporations that share our values and mission.

You wrote, produced, and directed a film about your mother’s journey and the warrior she was. Can you tell us more about that experience?

DONNA #StrongerThanPretty originated from a personal journal entry reflecting on the my childhood and mother's true story.

The project evolved into a screenplay and short film, screened on the day of The National Women's March in 2017. Inspired by the "ME TOO" movement, we partnered with The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence to produce the feature film, now available for streaming worldwide. This film portrays the journey of my mother’s journey from victim to survivor, showcasing the strength and freedom in overcoming adversity.

Now let’s get personal for a second, you have an upcoming wedding this summer, tell our readers how preparing for that walk down the aisle is going?

Planning a wedding in the LGBT community involves careful consideration to find a comfortable setting. We chose a magical outdoor venue 3,300 feet up in the mountains, aiming for a non-traditional, relaxed event with an extended cocktail hour vibe. The focus is on creating a standout memory and welcoming environment for out-of-town guests to dance, mingle, and enjoy the celebration.

You’ve acted, produced, and modeled… what is your favorite form of art expression?

Acting feels like home. It speaks to my soul from an early age. I get to play and have fun and express myself in through many emotions and perspectives. I'm a triple Pisces so although I like to have various titles, my passion will always be acting. When I was a child, my mom took us to a theatre show, and I turned to her during intermission with so much excitement and said, "That's what I am going to do when I grow up, and I am going to buy you a gold house.” Our family's house is not gold today, but it is yellow and filled with so much love!

Photography by Fadil Berisha

Love Wins Productions

Stronger Than Pretty LLC