Blog Archives

Jul 30 2016

Interview with Melanie Boria — Small Town Model

Melanie Boria is a 26-year old model residing in Milford, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am from Milford, Michigan, which is a very small town in the metro Detroit area. I love to travel! I am always going somewhere, I spend more time traveling than at home, love seeing new things, meeting new people and trying new restaurants. I love food, my favorite food is Pasta, and I also can make the best chocolate chip cookies, as well as I’m becoming a professional on Pokemon go.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

Being from Detroit, I always had a strong appreciation for the Auto Show. Ever since I was 3 years old, I loved seeing all of the beautiful models working at the show, so becoming a model and getting to work the Detroit Auto Show was a dream of mine.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

I see myself traveling to places I’ve never been and modeling in new exotic destinations, I would really like to do something with food, have a cooking show or a blog where I can share food that I’ve tried in different places, give tips on restaurants and recipes.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I mostly do photo shoots and video shoots. I’ve been in music videos, commercials, advertisements and book covers. I also do trade show modeling where I get to travel and model; I model year round and it consumes a lot of my time, but I love it so it never feels like work.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

One of my best experiences was shooting a music video with one of my favorite rappers, Passport Louis! He is one of the most fun and passionate people I’ve ever worked with and his music videos are always so detailed, it was awesome to be a part of such an amazing project and after I shot the first music video with him, I ended up shooting 3 more with him.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

I was taking photos in an abandoned church in Detroit. I was wearing a very risqué outfit. All of a sudden a bunch of people started coming into the church, turns out this church was not abandoned! I was mortified!

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I think that the industry is getting better everyday. I hope that it will become even more open to more types of looks, shapes and personalities. Everyone is beautiful and everyone should see themselves when they look at a magazine or watch TV.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I think nutrition and exercise are the two most important things to do for yourself. I love to bike ride, rollerblade and dance, try to get exercise in my everyday life in a way that is enjoyable to me, but I love food! Food is definitely my weakness, and I especially love Italian food and dessert, but I always make sure I get enough fruits and veggies too. I don’t drink and I don’t do any drugs, as I think that part of loving and taking care of yourself is making sure your nutrition and exercise is a necessity.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love to make people laugh and sometimes for fun I will make up my own stand up routine.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would love to be able to sing.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

If I could chose one superpower it would definitely be flying, I think it would be pretty sweet if I could fly, I could go wherever I want, whenever I want! I could take whoever I wanted with me and it would be so beautiful, plus I would never have to wait through a security checkpoint again.

Jun 13 2016

Interview with Cassidy Lee — Glamour Model with an Edge

Cassidy Lee is a 21-year old model residing in Detroit, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Cassidy Lee, a 21 years young from Detroit, Michigan. I have dark hair and green eyes, and besides modeling, I manage a beauty salon and also own my own interior decorating business. Independence and not caring too much about what others think of me is what I am all about.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I started modeling at ten years old, and being so young with working parents, I did not have anyone to travel to photo-shoots with me, so as soon as I was able to do things on my own, that’s just what I did. The minute I turned eighteen I started getting back into the industry, and do a photo-shoot a week typically. I love this industry.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

In five to ten years, I see myself signed with an agency, as well as a centerfold in Maxim, Playboy, or Sports Illustrated. I want to get my face out there as much as possible, make a difference, and push some limits, mostly modeling glamour, sexy, and edgy, that is what I put all my energy into.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

Photo-shoots typically are scheduled at least once a week for me. They usually consist of getting my hair and make-up done, and then shooting for a few hours, depending on the job. Although I have done acting before, most of my work consists of glamour, edge, and playboy-like work.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Every shoot is the best to me, whether it’s working with someone new, or a team I work with regularly, I always learn something new or get to do something fun and creative. Since every photographer shoots differently, I always learn a new tip from them, and it’s the same thing with make-up artists. I love having these connections and people I can always go to with questions or ideas to bring to life.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Some of the craziest experiences in my life have been on photo-shoots. In California, I did a photo-shoot with a python that weighed more than I did. There was one time I did a lingerie shoot in the snow, next to a snow hill where there were tons of people sledding. There’s never a down moment being a model, that is for sure! I love it.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

If I could change one thing about the modeling industry, it would be height requirements. Being only 5’6, it limits me and so many agencies to work together. I do not want to do runway work, but print work is where I am supposed to be, and I wish it was easier to get signed being my height.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I will admit, I am lucky with a good metabolism. Before photo-shoots, I typically try to eat as healthy as possible though, and splurge on pizza and burgers as soon as I am done haha!. I also try to do some at home workouts and walk regularly too.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I was meant to be in the 80’s era. Total 80’s girl all the way.

Would you change anything about yourself?

No, I would not change anything about myself. That’s a problem with images and influences with girls especially nowadays. You are YOU, no one else can be you. So EMBRACE your flaws! Love yourself.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

My favorite thing to do alone, well there are a lot of things. I am a very independent person, so I do need my alone time. I read and write a lot, I love reading things that are true or could happen. I love writing about things that are going on in my life, songs, poems, anything on my mind.

Visit Cassidy Lee’s website for more photos and information

Apr 02 2016

Interview with Trisha Kay — Gypsy model with versatility and passion

Trisha Kay is a 21-year old model residing in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Well hello there! I’m a 21 year old german and irish firecracker born in the small rural town of Ionia in the beautiful Michigan. I have lived in places all over Michigan like Grand Rapids, Detroit, Charlevoix, along with smaller cities in the state. I recently decided to pack up, throw my heart on my sleeve, get in my car, and move to Orange County, California to embrace new adventures out of the element I’ve known thus far! So far, sooo so good.

Some of my past occupations are bookstore clerk for the college I attended, which was Grand Rapids Community College who also advertised me on public transit buses, pandora, books, fliers and website; pizza girl and ninja, personal trainer, cutlery sales, Victoria Secret, go go dancing, and make-up art every so often. My personal time is spent painting, exercising, practicing my own photography, catching up with family, pampering, cooking nutritiously tasty meals, listening to music, and getting into shenanigans. I’m always traveling, the world is so big and beautiful…

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

Throughout my teens I very slowly rolled into modeling and had people approach me at events to do promotional work, photographers reaching out online, companies hiring me to model for ad campaigns, and more. I never thought I could actually be a “model” with my shapeliness and height but when I started to get paid after some portfolio building, I gained confidence and it has only been getting better for me since. It inspired me in many ways to explore makeup art, hair style, travel, my own physique, and the artistic aspects of it all. I signed with a few non exclusive talent agencies and modeled internationally before age 20.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

In 5 years, I would love to do something similar to what I do now: living my life filled with creativity, travel, amazing people, exotic animals, adventure, and self growth. I will most likely be working partially as a photographer, maybe some acting,

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I’ve done all sorts of modeling: multiple conventions, being the only model in a workshop full of photographers, pageants, Playboy published, bridal shows, fashion shows, catalog, commercial, swimsuit; I’m open to a lot, including freelance. I like booking photoshoots with hourly rates depending on content, talent, resources, attitude, travel logistics but a lot of my favorite gigs are booked through agents and scouts who make sure I get paid well, feel comfortable, and such a variety of work to choose from! Would you like to smile, pass out snacks, and meet some very great connections while getting paid and having fun on this day in this place? Why yes! I would.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

The best experiences I’ve had in modeling were always surprises; seeing your face on the cover of a magazine at most major stores for a shoot that paid well and you had no idea would be sold on stands internationally is a very powerful and humbling experience. All the traveling I’ve done, free products I get comped, artistic expression I exude whenever I want, fun experiences I endure, and interesting, talented, amazing people I’ve met through this industry have highlighted the career immensely. The worst experience I’ve had is when I almost got taken in France while traveling on my own via train to shoots, I totally felt like I was in the movie! Much scarier in real life, plus creepy photographers or the ones that don’t give images in an appropriate time frame or fail to communicate well post shoot.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Some of the requests I get are pretty ridiculous, I won’t get into all the strange experiences but there was a point going through emails where I’m like, “how is pretending to kick a guy in the nuts and talking about it on film considered “modeling?” Lol. No thanks.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

People can be so judgmental. I don’t enjoy telling people that I model because they instantly make assumptions, pick at imperfections, or label me any one of various things. I love the job because I love the process of creation with emotions and design but there are a lot of inappropriate photographers, scams, and dangerous traveling situations you have to look out for as predators are very real, so always check references if you model. As far as everything else, I like seeing all sorts of modeling: big, tall, small, tatts, so I would create more awesomely uniquely beautiful independent genres of modeling besides the mainstream 5’9 and sunken in expectation fashion tends to demand.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I love exercise as much as I love chocolate and workout most days of the week with a cardio mixup of running, stair climbing, or biking, strength training, and stretching. Love throwing the fun stuff in along the way like yoga, which feels so good; boxing, swimming, basketball, golfing, volleyball, dancing, hiking, and skiing in between. I’ve been a vegetarian for the last three months so I find my protein in stuff like greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and protein bars. My diet is also filled with health conscious smoothies, green tea, peanut butter, whole grains, spicy meals, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and I’m usually up for trying anything with nutritional value. I definitely like to let myself indulge every once in a while, specially with gnocchi, pizza, fruit snacks… life’s too short, enjoy it!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I enjoy helping building homes for Habitat for Humanity, interacting closely with very dangerous animals, and I’m told I giggle in my sleep.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Physically, I’ve come to accept and love this meat bag I live in, so, I’m fine with what I’m venturing this earth in -most days”-. Besides that I think it would be so cool to be ridiculously hilarious because I love seeing people laugh and smile.

What is the longest you have gone without taking a bath?

To be honest, I take a bath at least once a day, and I hate showering. I’m always soaking in pretty scented aromatherapy while deep conditioning my hair and using my home made natural face masks thinking of the most random things while listening to my favorite tunes in my waterproof speaker. It’s my daily zen… so relaxing and enlightening to my spirit.

Mar 21 2016

Interview with Corrin — Model, remarkable, and passionate

Corrin is a 25-year old model residing in Detroit, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised on the west side of Detroit, Michigan. I have two brothers, a ton of cousins, and my immediate family is super supportive of all my endeavors; we all are very close and love spending family time together. My hobby is doing DIY projects and furniture restoration, mainly because the DIY process is very therapeutic to me since I get lost in the art of bringing an old piece of furniture back to life. I am very interested in traveling the world, as I love meeting new and interesting people, and it would be delightful to experience different cultures around the world: I feel like the world is our playground so we should get out there and play. Education is very important to me so I made it a priority to obtain a degree in business.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I began my modeling career with a local Detroit designer by the name of Gina T, after I came across one of her Facebook post that said she was offering a workshop for aspiring models. The workshop included runway training, tips on how to pose in front of the camera, and photography sessions. I saw this as a great opportunity to tap into that inner model within myself that was dying to introduce herself to the world. I did end up meeting Gina T, and from there I went on to walk in many of her fashion shows and participate in photo shoots with her. As time went on, I learned more about the industry and began to meet with industry professionals and photographers as I needed to give myself good opportunities to move forward with my career. What compelled me to get into the fashion industry is my pure passion for it. Everything about modeling brings me joy and I am a natural at it.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

An important personal goal of mine is to remain healthy in mind, body, and spirit. I feel your health is your wealth so being completely healthy in all aspects will allow anyone to achieve whatever they desire in life. My five to ten year goal is to be even more active in the fashion industry and possibly cross over into the world of entertainment doing commercials, plays, or maybe even a movie roll or two.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

My work load mainly consists of photo shoots, and I do a lot of themed and concept shoots. The photographers I have worked with thus far are great at working with me if I have a theme or concept I would like to bring to life. It is fantastic when wardrobe is provided but I also enjoy styling myself, just as I enjoy shooting lifestyle and high fashion as well. I also do runway shows, and absolutely enjoy strutting my 6’0 tall frame down the catwalk. Runway shows are exciting and really get my adrenaline flowing.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

One of the best experiences I have had thus far modeling is getting the opportunity to walk in a New York Fashion Week Show. It is often chaos back stage but I totally love it, as I was born and built to handle it. The energy in the city around that time is also awesome, and fashion lovers from around the world flood into New York to share a common interest, fashion. I have a passion for fashion myself so it was an absolute honor to be able to showcase some amazing designs for all of the excited fashionistas.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

During the time when I first started doing photo shoots something embarrassing happened. I was packing my clothes in a suitcase to take to the photo shoot location, and the one suitcase was full so I used a separate one for the shoes that were to coordinate with the outfits. So, I arrive at the shot and the photographer and I started going over the looks he would like to photograph and then he says “Ok, I love your looks now let’s see the shoes you have”. I look around for the shoe suitcase but it is nowhere to be found. Apparently, I was so excited and in such a rush I totally forgot the shoe suit case… I was totally embarrassed, and I turned so beat red to the point the makeup artist could have completely skipped the blush during makeup application. The location was too far from my home to go back so I had to run out and find a pair of shoes right quick so I would not be doing the shoot barefoot.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I would like the industry to change their standard of what is beautiful. The industry has a very powerful influence on millions of people so it would be great to see the industry emphasize all heights, shapes, and shades of people are all beautiful in their own right.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I make it a priority to exercise. Exercise is vital to life longevity and a strong body, and you have to admit, when you look good you feel good. The gym and I have a love and hate relationship, as I do enjoy working out but the process does not always feel that great, but after my workout is complete, I always experience the most rewarding feeling knowing I am moving my health in a positive and productive direction. Working out makes the body look good but the mental gratification feels great. Along with working out, of course you have to alter your diet to achieve your desired workout results. I rarely eat fast food and I do like to cook healthy. I consume a lot of protein shakes, salmon, and I love a great salad, and recently purchased a pressure cooker. Let me tell you, I am totally in love with it because it has taken convenient, fast, and healthy cooking to a whole other level.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would like to master being more patient. In certain situation I jump the gun and take things into my own hands without letting the situation play out. I would also like to change my shoe size, as I stand 6’0 tall so it is only like right that my feet are long. I miss out on some great shoe fashions because the designer does not make the shoe in my size… the shoe buying struggle is real.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

The coolest super power I wish I had was teleportation. I would like to be able to close my eye and teleport myself and a guest to anywhere I desired in the world and also have the ability to teleport us back home. I would absolutely love this super power because it would save me a ton of money on airfare. No more finding a ride to the airport or having to pay daily fees for self parking if I do not find a ride. No more having to pay for a cab or an Uber to and from the airport either. I also would not have to deal with the awful turbulence the air crafts go through during flights. I would be saying bye bye to jet lag and the possibility of lost luggage too.

Mar 19 2016

Interview with Mary Casarreal — Cuban Model, Science and language Lover

Mary Casarreal is a 25-year old model residing in Lansing, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Pinar del Rio, Cuba and my roots define much of my identity but I’m a straight forward yet complex individual. My heart resides within the rhythm of the caribbean sea on the west side of the island, while love and Respect rule my character. I moved to the United States with my family, graduated from High School in Michigan, and recently graduated College from The University of Michigan with a major in Bio Cognitive Neuroscience, and another degree in French and Francophone Studies. I speak Spanish, English and French fluently and my wanderlust and love for all people consumes me.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

My first modeling job was at the age of 15, when I did a lifestyle catalog shoot here in Michigan. I remember the photographer was Quinn and it was a wonderful experience, as it was an extremely sunny day in a small town in Michigan. As we drove, there were fields of corn and sunflowers on a dirt road leading up to the photographer’s home. It was mid August and my dad came along to spend the day with me, we had our windows down driving there in late morning and the breeze was incredible. It was absolutely beautiful.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

This year I wish to focus on my career as a model and actress more so than anything else. I am studying for some exams for my graduate career but I would like to shoot Swimwear and travel more than anything else this year. I will also be incorporating myself into the Spanish market more so, send some good luck my way.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I’ve been traveling non stop as a spokesmodel for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles since January which consists of working for one of the brands and answering any questions about the products with a smile, love for the position and enthusiasm. So far Philly, Detroit, Chicago and Charlotte have been good to me! Next stops are Atlanta, Ohio and NY!

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Best experience was touring the caribbean with Hot Tropix shooting a calendar on a two week trip to over 7 islands, that was me in my natural habitat. I also toured the caribbean with a luxury swimsuit brand called Komplique and that experience changed me as a person and my outlook on life. The worst would probably be a super creepy photographer I shot with once who insisted if we ever had to travel I needed to sleep in the same bed as him because other models thought it was normal… never normal ladies.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

I’ve never done anything nude, but I was body painted for Comic-Con as Wonder Woman, which was amazing as I felt clothed and looked clothed although I wasn’t… it was awesome. You can google my name and body paint and it should come up, it was great.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

The industry needs to be actually accepting of curvy, large and foreign and not have the token colored, heavy and authentic looking girl in every campaign. Also more opportunity for minorities.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

Nutritional plan is on my Instagram and so are my workouts but I don’t eat canned foods, don’t drink pop or sodas, I drink seldomly, I swear it… I lift weights and enjoy my yoga. P90X every other day especially the plyometrics CD and fresh squeezed veggie and fruit juices in the morning. I make things as fresh as possible, no yellow #5 in my food please!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I think everyone needs to read Radical Forgiveness, Many Lives Many Masters, & 5 Love Languages. Also, I love seafood.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would be able to turn haters into chocolate and then eat them.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Homemade Chicken Stew, fluffy fuzzy socks, soft pajamas and a mouthwatering dessert with too much chocolate, snuggled up with my puppy and the people I love the most with no deadlines and no worries in that moment in time. Besides that guilty pleasure give me a bikini, a beach and some fresh seafood and I’m trapped.

Mar 16 2016

Interview with Oki Doki — Burlesque Performer and Avant Model

Oki Doki is a 22-year old model residing in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Born in Daytona Beach, Florida, I moved away as soon as I graduated high school and immediately got involved in the local arts scene of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The rest is history as the people I met helped catapult me into the performance and visual art world that I now find myself in. When I’m not behind the camera or on the stage, I’m typing away at my computer as a freelance journalist and editor for a local paper from back home, Florida.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

It’s seems silly, but I truly got my beginning when I got my senior portraits done for high school. I couldn’t believe how much I loved it, and the photographer seemed to really enjoy my energy! When my portraits came out looking something out of a magazine and not a yearbook I decided I wanted to start doing it professionally. After moving to Michigan I quickly became involved in the local burlesque troupe, and finding photographers to model for was easy after that.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

I have a lot of goals, with an umbrella goal of accomplishing at least half of them. The big two are expanding my horizons as a performance artist and going on an international tour. Some other goals include getting photos done I’ve only dreamed of, finishing college, and making a million dollars -at once of course-.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I don’t model often anymore, and this is because I’ve just got a lot more picky about who I want photographing me and what type of modeling I want to portray. I used to do anything – so long as I was getting paid. Now I do a lot of t4t shoots with amazing photographers who can make my visions come true. I tend to fall into the erotic category, and though I love a good boudoir shoot I find myself leaning more towards art nudes and avant-garde themes.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Oh boy. Let’s get the bad out of the way first… I had a horrid experience with a “photographer” who drank whisky during the entire shoot, despite having to drive to different locations, asked me inappropriate questions, and never got my photos to me because I turned him down when he asked me out. Now the best experience is literally any time I’ve shot with Tim Motley: the man is an utter genius, and gives the absolute best feedback. If he likes what you’re doing, you’ll hear a lot of “ohh fuck yeah”‘s and “holy shiiiiit”‘s – it’s hilarious and very reassuring.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Sometimes I’ll wear those cheap, fake nails you can pick up at the dollar store for shoots -although they don’t look cheap or fake on camera- so that I don’t have to do my real nails, which wouldn’t look as good anyway. Though the last time I picked them up, I forgot to pick up the nail glue you have to use to apply them. So, I used eyelash glue instead, which made sense and seemed like a fine alternative. The shoot was in a bathtub, however, and as the shoot progressed my nails kept falling off in the tub. My MUA was desperately fishing in the milky water for my lost nails every few minutes, and super-gluing them back on! The damn things didn’t come off for days after that… but we all had a good laugh.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

Of course, we all want to change something, though I think most of us can agree that it would be great if people weren’t so damn flaky. You don’t even want to know how many shoots I have booked that never even happened, because someone didn’t get back to me after agreeing to a damn date.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I’ve always done yoga, since I was a kid and my mom owned a shop that sold incense and crystals. Yoga has been a huge part of my life, and it is both a fantastic workout and stress reliever. Though on top of yoga I run in the summers -give me a break, I live in Michigan- and have recently been learning aerial silks at an aerials gym once a week. Nutrition has also always been a big part of my life, with a father who is a nutritionist. I try to keep a balanced diet, I never starve myself, and I never get fast food… ok, the occasional fry.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

In the realm of models and photographers, many people aren’t aware that I’m in a burlesque troupe. They’re called Super Happy Funtime Burlesque and it is the absolute best time of my life. We write zany, original music, tour the country and meet some of the most amazing people showbiz has got to offer!

Would you change anything about yourself?

Never. You should always love yourself, both on the inside and the outside, and if a change needs to be made, make it for yourself and always be healthy both physically and mentally. I love my life, my friends and the experiences I continue to make. I wouldn’t change a thing.

What was the meanest rumor ever spread about you?

High school was great in a lot of ways, but high school was also hell. I had a girl, who did not like me at all, spent weeks with one of her friends making custom t-shirts, headbands, and even socks! that said “Rheannon is a Whore” or some such variation of that sentiment. She even made an entire photo album on Myspace of their progress — though of course I didn’t see this until after she passed them out to any and everyone who would wear one on the last day of my Sophomore year. I made it through one class before I reported her and got to go home until the next year. In an ironic twist of fate, she later became my best friend, although we don’t speak anymore.

Visit Oki Doki’s website for more photos and information

Mar 14 2016

Interview with Ashley Carpenter — Full Time Mom and Model

Ashley Carpenter is a 28-year old model residing in Cadillac, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Detroit, MI and raised in Macomb, MI, by my grandparents. I have a twin sister, and three younger brothers. During High School I was a cheerleader, and always worked in the restaurant and bar industry, starting at the age of 14 as a Hostess at Big Boys. I’ve worked at numerous restaurants as a waitress and once I turned 18, I started my career at Hooters, where I’ve worked at 5 different units across the United States.

I’ve lived in southern California the last 8 years of my life, and 6 months ago moved back to Michigan. I love outdoor and adventurous things, including horseback riding, motocross, anything on a dirt bike really, wake boarding, boating, tubing, really anything in the water. I love traveling the world… Venice, Italy; Budapest, Hungary; Prague, Czech Republic; The Maldives, are some of my favorites. I’ve stopped in Tokyo, Singapore, Moscow, Malé… I am internationally scuba certified, and am very excited to continue working to become a dive master. I have two beautiful children, my son is 6 and my daughter is almost 4, and I am married to the love of my life, we met at 14 years old. We’ve been married for 8 years!

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I’ve always wanted to be a model, ever since I was a little girl. I know it sounds very cliché, but it’s so true. I’ve never really been one to be camera shy, and used to make home videos on my grandfather’s video camera of my sister and I “rapping” to Eminem… embarrassing, I know, but I have just always loved being in front of the camera. I started modeling when I was 18, and when I moved to California, the door to the modeling world really opened up for me.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

You know, I’ve always wanted to be in Maxim, and Playboy… but I’m also the girl who loves Tattoos, and tattoos don’t take you that route in the modeling world. I’ve always wanted to walk runway shows like Victoria’s secret, but again, tattoos, and the fact that I’m about 3 inches too short for runway… That didn’t really go my way either. I also love Motocross and have always wanted to be a Monster Energy girl for Supercross. I’m still aiming for that! Professional goals though… I’m about to start nursing school… in 5-10 years, I see myself with my ADN or BSN, working in a great hospital taking care of people. Hopefully between now and then, I will have more published accomplishments and can retire from the modeling world happy with the work I have done.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I model whenever I get a shoot I’m into. I don’t typically do Tf shoots, I am a paid and published model. If someone contacts me for a shoot or project, saying “Hey, we love your look, we want to book you, and have a plane ticket for you ready and waiting if you say yes” then I’m there. It’s not just a job for me, it really is a passion and fun for me. I will shoot almost anything, but I will not do erotic and fetish modeling, since that’s all a weird realm for me. I will do tasteful nudes, and I have, I’m very comfortable in my own skin. I find I get booked for a lot of lingerie and bikini shoots and projects though.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

The best project to date, I’d have to say was when Chevy Hardcore contacted me to do a shoot for them, which was fun, it was in Temecula, CA. It was super windy that day so a lot of the shots my hair is flying around and it was like we had a giant fan making my hair all glamorous, when really, it was just super windy. I got lost on the way there and got pulled over, and the policeman escorted me to my shoot, so that was a different way to make an entrance. I’d have to say my worst shoot was my very first shoot, when I was contacted by this “photographer” and he wanted to do a shoot at this nudist resort. He said it was because obviously it being a place where people can roam freely naked, we could get implied and nude shots, if I was comfortable, without getting into trouble.

I was 18 and super naive, and agreed even though I wasn’t really sure I wanted to do this shoot. I checked out his portfolio when he contacted me and they didn’t look like awful shots, but they weren’t very edited and seemed very amateur. I still went ahead with it though, thinking if I didn’t do it, I never would, and who was I to be picky, it was my very first shoot ever. I went, and we started in the pool, and that part was fine, but towards the end of the shoot, it almost seemed like he was just aiming for porno looking shots, and it made me very uncomfortable so I was pretty much done with the shoot at that point. I always said after that shoot I would never do nude shoots again, and now look at me. Haha.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Sometimes I bring an escort to a shoot, usually if it’s a shoot at a residence and I’ve never worked with the photographer. You never know with the things going on in the world, and I’m a firm believer in being safe than sorry. So I bring my friend at the time to this shoot at this residence and I’m nude for the shoot… and during break at one point, she throws on some heels, and comes on the screen with me and the photographer thought it was really funny, so here my friend is trying to pose and he is taking goofy pictures just having fun, and then she bites my nipple. And he actually got a picture of it, and it was probably a first for him to have a model’s friend just randomly kind of crash the shoot for a few minutes, but it was all fun and he was a good sport about it.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

If I had ultimate power to change parts of the modeling industry I absolutely would put restrictions for models with tattoos. I’m heavily inked up and because of that, it stops me from higher end fashion shoots and projects. I’d also drop the height requirement for runway to 5’5″ so I could walk in runway shows.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

Again, I’m very into active things like wake boarding and scuba diving, and motocross. I am kind of a stickler when it comes to how I look, especially weight wise, but I don’t shy away from any foods, I love food, and I love to eat. Bar food is my favorite, and I like to drink, so I tend to put a lot of bad stuff into my body. I’m not against eating healthy at all, and I love fruit and Vegetables.

Just being a mom with two children is a lot easier to eat the bad stuff and fat filled stuff rather than trying to make super healthy food all the time. So because I like to keep my weight under control, and always try to look and feel my best, I literally went out and bought gym equipment about a week ago and have started a home gym in my basement. That way I’m more in control and when the kids go to bed, I have no excuse on why I can’t go work out for 2 hours.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I hunt. A lot of people perceive me as the girly girl, because I like to have my nails done, and wear heels and dresses and go tanning, and have hair extensions. But I really have no problem getting down and dirty, with no makeup, wearing camouflage and killing Bambi to put meat in my freezer to feed my family. I was always up north on my family’s farm during the summers driving tractors and plowing fields with my grandpa… cutting, splitting, and stacking wood all day, tending the garden, planting corn in the field, bailing hay and stacking that. To be honest, I love all the girly things, but I’d choose my cowboy boots over my heels any day.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would love to be back to my high school weight at 115, but realistically, that would never happen, and I am comfortable in my body now, I am learning to love my curves and be content with that. I definitely would change my patience though, because I have zero.

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

I went golfing one day and I was obviously drinking. I didn’t want to drive all the way back to the club to go to the bathroom, and my husband kept telling me that we were really close to a bathroom. I literally just couldn’t even take it anymore, and when we got to the next hole, I pulled my skirt down on the cart path, and peed right there. He was like “you’re joking right?” and I was like “When you have to go, you have to go.”

Visit Ashley Carpenter’s website for more photos and information

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Mar 09 2016

Interview with JazzyD — Multi Talented Business Model

JazzyD is a 19-year old model residing in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Jazmen McDonald, born in Detroit, MI in 1996, and I have 2 families; my mother’s family and my father’s family. My hobbies include reading, writing raps and poetry, singing, dancing, and helping others, and my interests include helping teens like myself, giving back to youth, building an empire. My professions are singing, dancing, writing, cleaning, cooking, and giving advice.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

Being young and tall for my age at the time my family would encourage me to become a model, especially my aunt Alethea Thomas who was Ms. Washinton D.C. I got involved in the modeling industry when I was 9 years old, I was at this African-American convention similar to the African-American World Fest and my God Sister was doing a fashion show, she was a short one model and I was the only girl that was tall and slim enough to fit her design. I got into the modeling industry soon after I realized I loved being the center of attention.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My personal goals are to be able to provide for my future children and be able to leave a legacy that they can carry on for decades. My professional goals are to be able to show younger children you can do anything that you put your mind to as long as you stay focused, you may get distracted but as long as your main focus is to become the best at what you do and want to do you can make it, not just for young people but for everyone. In the next five to ten years I see myself being successful in my modeling and business career as well as being a mother.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

In the modeling industry because I am a petite model so most of my work is limited. I do shoot often but they are not continuously, I mainly do photoshoots, video shoots and they’re mainly artistic nudes, nudes, glamour, implied nudes, and eye-candy shoots.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

The best experience I have had with modeling is being able to enjoy the camera and being able to be free and have fun. My worst experience was going to New York with only $9 in my pocket and not being able to make it to certain appointment and castings, as well as being stood up by other photographers.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

I have had an embarrassing moment, I was shooting a movie and there was a part in the shoot where I was getting in the tub, remind you I didn’t know I would be naked so everything was natural.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

The only thing I would change about the modeling industry is the amateur photographers.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I don’t do any sports but I do workout 3 to 5 times a week, which includes 10 minutes stretch, 140 squats, 50 reverse sit ups, 50 calf’s, and dance while working out, each workout day. I watch what I eat and or how much of it I consume simply because I have to keep my body tight and the next days work out is going to be painful.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am Honduran and Native American and I’m mainly laid back and chilled. People love spending time with me.

Would you change anything about yourself?

If I could change anything about me, it would be my judgmental side.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

My fears are roller coasters, height, and insects. Roller coasters make me feel like I’m going to die, height makes me feel as if someone is going to drop me, which is a reason I couldn’t be a flyer in H.S., and insects make my skin crawl. My phobias are dirt and nasty places it really makes my skin crawl like spiders.

Visit JazzyD’s website for more photos and information

Mar 07 2016

Interview with Deven — SAG-AFTRA Actress, Rock Singer, Model

Deven is a 28-year old model residing in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Greetings, and it’s a pleasure to have you take an interest in my work as well as this blog. I am Michigan-made and proud, having lived on both sides of the state. I have a Bachelors Degree in Theatre and took my passion overseas where I studied Drama in London, and growing up on the stage put a curse on the world for me, it’s the only place I really feel like I am home, although it definitely helped with my wonderful relationship with the camera and how I express myself.

When I moved to Detroit, I became a full-time artist; shooting films and commercials, modeling for local clothing companies and magazines, as well as developing two very amazing rock bands. I also grew up in a family of musicians, so music and singing are also huge parts of my life; and aside from the arts, I have many hobbies, including fitness training, pole dancing, yoga, dance, cooking, astronomy, and traveling… not forgetting my family and adorable cats.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I started modeling in my late teens but never felt comfortable branching out until I started acting professionally. I never saw myself as a model, just a young girl who liked dressing up and taking photos. When I started getting exposure from film, I knew I had to set my standards higher for myself which meant branch out in different areas of art, which included modeling. Head shots were crucial so on top of a headshot session, I would have a modeling session. Then I got involved with doing live runway shows and print work in Detroit which was an incredible experience.

My inner tigress came out during the live shows, I felt like I was thriving; in my recent shoots, I have been known to be aggressive, raw, and let’s say… unconventional, depending on what type of shoot, of course. I prefer going places models usually don’t go, because I have the advantage of extensive acting experience on camera and on stage, and as such my passion drives my body wherever it happens to go in the shoot. Now, I am taking my career to a whole different, higher level of commitment, and finally believe I can make my mark as an artist. Modeling is a huge part of helping me love and respect myself, and to help aspire to be the best I can be.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

Professional goals are simple: win an Oscar, win a Grammy, and create art with incredible people around the world, which will be a lot of work, but I am one to reach instead of wonder. I hope to one day be able to travel all over the world and connect with people from all walks of life, maybe even raise a family and live in a different place… I can see myself touring in a few years, filming overseas and taking my cats wherever I go. Most importantly, I want to see myself happier and healthier than ever.

Wherever I will be, I hope it is surrounded by good food, good company, and good beer. I love craft beer, always loved the idea of running a theatre or brewery down the road and I can get away with running the show. So, nothing too big.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I am a working actress, which is my primary career, and I do a lot of print shoots that are more Gothic or alternative fashion; then I got into doing more Erotic, Fetish, and BDSM shows and walk the catwalk, flog the models, and others. Lingerie and Chains soon became some favorite things to wear. I took a break from modeling as I went through a transition in my life and am now back and ready to rock, and I have a promo video in production which should be ready by Spring. I was also just recently published with over 20 prints, and have more in the mix, and I am always in search of more gigs and hope to make modeling another career.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

I haven’t really had a bad experience, I learned from other models to research who you are working with and always be in communication with the photographer. So, I’ve never been in a bind, however, the most interesting shoot I did was in town, and I never met the guy personally. I loved his style, and we wanted to meet up and talk, where he told me to just bring a bunch of different clothes and we would wing it. When I got to his studio, I took a look at his artwork and immediately knew the clothes I brought would be useless. So, thankfully I had pasties, I put on a Mexican wrestling mask, and we ended up shooting for almost 8 hours!

It was an awkward beginning but as we worked, we developed a great friendship; it was intense and emotional, and crazy and wild. He is still a dear friend of mine. My best experience so far has been recent, as I just had my first publication of being a Cover Model for a magazine, as well as having over 10 solo shots and 10 shots with a lovely young woman. It was an honor to have been selected, and I can’t wait to get published again. Fingers crossed!

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Probably, however I have no shame and prefer the strange, so what may seem normal to me, may be strange for others. I guess not every gig will ask a model to flog the other models at the end of a fashion show, and dance in nothing but leather straps; before the show, I was lucky enough to have a fellow model tell me I had toilet paper stuck on the bottom of my boot, so she saved me from some embarrassment.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

Yes. However, I think the industry is evolving in a positive direction, at least how the world views models. The expectations are more realistic and healthy, models are different sizes and shapes, which are more relatable to the public eye. Designers are growing bold, and there are many more models and designers coming into their own thanks for social media. I am looking forward to seeing where the industry goes.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I am a gym monkey, I am in at least 5 days a week, rotating cardio, swimming, and weightlifting. I also pole dance and study yoga. Diet and nutrition are very important to maintain the type of physique I identify with, although most of my young adult life, I was a horrible eater and always forgot to eat or starve myself a week before a shoot. The weight would come off but come back on just as fast. That would cycle into lowering self-confidence, and fearing the gym.

Plus, I am a musician and we had a lot of shows, and a lot of drinking to do. I’d see myself in pictures as skinny, and not in a good way, so I decided instead of getting frustrated with myself, I took action to develop healthy habits instead of grandiose goals. Goals sounds sexier, but habits are consistent, as with eating healthy, I have energy and optimism to work out, which helps my overall mentality and perception on life. Go eat some colorful food, drink a lot of water, get some good sleep, and smile.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am hyper-extended in my arms and legs, which makes horror shoots extra fun, which means I can spin my arms around in different ways and gross out the manliest of men.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I have always had an insecurity towards my nose, and tried to distract from it by having bangs for 8 years. Since I grew my bangs out, I have had more compliments on my nose and face than ever before. I found my nose irritating because it would cast a shadow in photos, and utter nonsense that I eventually realized there was no point in criticizing. I took to heart what friends said: to just embrace myself, nose and all.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Beer and cheese, or beer cheese, or pasta with cheese… I have an unhealthy obsession with it. Life is too short not to indulge every once in a while. In fact, it’s healthy to treat yourself in moderation. If I gave up cheese forever, I would die, or just be very sad.

Visit Deven’s website for more photos and information.

Feb 27 2016

Interview with WhineyFu Cosplay — Model, Geek, Whiner, knows little kung fu

WhineyFu Cosplay is a 27-year old model residing in New Baltimore, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Workaholic born in and living with my family in southeast Michigan, I am a full time doctoral student in the mental health field, and currently work full time in an office, part time as a mental health professional, all while going to school. I work on school work, model, and cosplay on the weekends, as well as write, draw, and sing terribly. Cosplaying has become a passionate hobby for me as it combines the fashion and photography that I love and the pop culture I feed on. Life is good when I can attend a convention once a month.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I have wanted to do something with fashion and modeling since high school but I was not mentally or physically in a healthy place for anything like that at the time. I have been cosplaying for over 5 years now and have been doing photoshoots of my costumes during that time, but it was only recently that I branched out into fashion and boudoir shoots after I won a photoshoot session with Bontisha Rose photography in February 2015. I had never thought I could do anything of just me for modeling as I do think I am tall or thin. I am mentally and physically healthy enough for this now at this time of my life. Modeling channels my creativity and I hope this creativity can inspire others and affect others how it has positively affected me.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

Hopefully, I will be Dr. WhineyFu Cosplay in 5 years, since I am a second year doctoral student. I hope to be employed full time doing something I love, and would like to be able to incorporate modeling and my cosplay into my educational career too. Cosplay takes a certain level of self-esteem, confidence, and worth. Cosplay for your mental health, anyone?

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I do the majority of my modeling work on the weekend as that is the only time I have availability. I am either doing a photoshoot, walking around a convention, or working on my costumes. As of right now, I photoshoot cosplay, fashion, art, and glamour, but I would love to do more, especially catwalks and acting, but just no nudity.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

I haven’t really had a “worst” experience so far in modeling. Each photographer I have worked with has been great and has given me more experience in my modeling. I really do like it though when a photographer is just as geeked about a photo as I am. I do notice a lot of nude requests for photoshoots now, in general, and although I have no problem personally with nudity, I do not want that for my modeling photoshoots.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

I love interacting with people while I am in cosplay at conventions, or outside of conventions. Some of the most memorable interactions I have had are with kids who think I am that actually character I am dressed up as. As for embarrassing, I have certainly tripped and face-planted a few times while in cosplay. No pain and gain, right?

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

More body types advertised for women and men. Models sell products and an image, then why not meet the consumers’ needs? I love clothes and fashion, but every time I see an ad selling me something, it is on a model who is either smaller or bigger than me. You want to sell me something? Show me how it looks on someone like me.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I used to participate in sports when I was younger, and I played soccer for over 10 years. I exercise almost everyday early in the morning on my elliptical and then also add a little bit of weight lifting on the weekends. I also walk my dog almost ever day when I have the chance to do so. I keep track of just about everything I eat to keep aware of what I am putting in my body and what I am putting out. However, I do not stress too much about what I am eating or if I am “bad” for a day.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love the movies and collect movie ticket stubs. And the most times I have seen a movie in theaters is 21 times.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would like to say no but that’s not true. I can only imagine the chaos I could cause if I were taller; people always say I look taller than I actually am, but I would like to actually be taller. Maybe that’s why I am always in heels?

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I am usually never alone because of my dog but when it is just the 2 of us, we like to sit on the couch and marathon TV shows or watch a new movie we have heard about but never seen before. All of this while working on a costume and yelling or arguing with the TV. I talk to myself and the dog when I am alone. Good company.

Visit WhineyFu Cosplay’s website for more photos and information

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