Ed Locke, the director, was a model for twenty-five years. Earning leading roles in over one hundred national and international commercials, his extensive career includes working with clients such as GQ, Paco Rabanne, J. Crew, Bergdorf Goodman, Gillette, Porsche, Nike, and REI. Ed traveled extensively throughout the world, having the opportunity to collaborate with acclaimed photographers such as Horst, Peggy Sarota, Arthur Elgort, and Patrick Demarchelier.

Ed's background outside of the modeling world is also rich, and has helped him shape much of his professional philosophy. A former Army Airborne Commando and trained survival expert, Ed knows what it means to push the mental and physical limitations of his body. His perseverance and love for adventure have taken Ed down many paths-- martial arts, mountaineering, team roping, racing motorcycles/bicycles, piloting aircrafts and competitive snow/water-skiing. These endeavors and skills, combined with being the father of four sons, an incredible daughter, and an incredible wife have taught me how to listen, ask the right questions, and provide solutions in a variety of circumstances. Ed's select and dynamic agency is designed to leverage his professional expertise and rich life experience to provide the perfect fit for his clients and the talent he represents.

Ed has been married 33 years and enjoys spending time with his wife, 5 kids & 8 grandkids. He also enjoys building hot rods and adventure motorcycle riding.

Ed Locke Ed Locke

Mary Wharton, the NC Office Director, is NC born & bred and has called Greensboro home for over 20 years. She graduated from UNCG and has been with LOCKE since 2007. Ed has affectionately coined her "Miss Details" so if you need a quote or contract, project details or just a general wordsmith she's your gal! Her favorite part of the business is working with interesting people from all over the world, and helping create successful shoots by pairing the right talent for our clients. In her free time Mary enjoys being a mom to dogs Reba & Hank, spending time with friends & family, traveling and anything outdoors (especially in the summertime!), the occasional crafty/DIY weekend project, trying out new foods & brews, and singing off-key.

Mary Wharton Mary Wharton

Naidely Perez, the Kids Booker & Social Media manager, was born in Mexico, moved to the United States at the age of 1 and was raised in North Carolina. She joined LOCKE in 2022. Some favorite things about her job would be meeting new people and being on set to watch behind the scenes. When she’s not at work you can find Naidely relaxing with her family, at a park with her son Antonio, or at the baseball field. She loves going to concerts, enjoys finding comfy spots to journal, and loves finding new adventures to go on.

Naidely Perez Naidely Perez