Blog Archives

May 16 2016

Interview with Lydia Mae — Curve Full-Figure Model

Lydia Mae is a 25-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, my name is Lydia Mae, I am a curve model in Minneapolis, Minnesota, born and raised here, then moved to Chicago and Los Angeles to work in larger modeling scenes. After time, my sister’s wedding brought me back to Minneapolis when I was in my early twenties, were I reside currently.

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

I first got into the modeling industry because a friend of mine wanted to try his hand at photography, when he asked me to model for him as a test. He then showed those photos to his agent, and his agent asked me to sign with his agency when I was seventeen years old. I highly enjoyed meeting new people and being creative through modeling, and as a result I stayed in Minneapolis until I was 19, then started working in Chicago and Los Angeles.

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

My personal and professional goals are the same: I want to help make a change for the standard of beauty in the modeling industry to bring back full figured and confident women. Beauty comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes and it’s time to be accepting of all beauty.

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

Currently, I have just begun to start modeling again, as a few years back, I was fighting with myself to stay ‘thin’ to the sizes I was expected to be in order to book work. My body naturally wanted to hold more weight then I would allow it too. I was constantly forcing myself to work out and stay thin, that it stressed my body out, and I became since and was constantly nervous to gain weight to the point that I counted every calorie I ate. After I moved back home to Minneapolis, I had to accept my body was changing, that I could not force it to be a size it did not want to be. I took a break from modeling and now a few years later, the industry is more accepting of full figured women, and thankfully, I currently have agencies interested and have started to update my portfolio.

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

Every opportunity I have experienced with modeling has been one to form and mold me into the person I am today. Whether that’s landing the cover of a magazine or living paycheck to paycheck in LA, everything I have experienced has been one of personal growth.

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

I would have to say the most embarrassing moment in my career was when I tried out for America’s Next Top Model, and I was so nervous that while filming my audition tape, I spoke in a British accent the whole time! You’re probably wondering why I had an accent, and it’s because my mom is British. I do not have an accent in my everyday life, but evidently when I am extremely nervous, it will pop out!

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

I would help push the change of acceptance of all shapes, sizes, and colors. We live in such a beautiful world, it’s time to show how individually is beautiful.

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

I come from a family who loves their daily wheatgrass shots, fish oil pills, kale smoothies, and free range chicken. I like to say that I eat healthy when I cook at home and eat on the run, but every now and then I am tempted by a carb loaded juicy burger! My daily exercise of choice is Orange Theory Fitness, and love high intensity workouts. If I’m not constantly moving, I will loose my interest.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a dual citizen, since my mother was born in England, she was able to pass on the opportunity to be a citizen. I have been a dual citizen for two years and absolutely love it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

To be in the modeling industry, it can be a harsh reality check that not everyone is going to find you beautiful. It’s very easy to start judging yourself, loosing self confidence and questioning yourself. The reality is you are not going to be every client’s ‘dream girl.’ With making yourself are the ‘product’ you are selling, I believe you must first and foremost must be confident in yourself. Once you love who and what you are, you will be more successful in your work as a model. The beautiful thing is there is only one you in this world, so show that world how beautiful you are.

If you were the opposite sex for one day, what would you do?

Tell every girl I saw that they are beautiful. It’s rare that strangers compliment strangers, as we have become a society that is afraid to speak to other people. I love chatting it up with people I don’t know, but many people are hesitant to even make eye contact with you. Random acts of kindness, such as a quick ‘you have a beautiful smile’ can brighten anyone’s day. We only have one life, so make it a good one.

Visit Lydia Mae’s website for more photos and information

May 14 2016

Interview with Chelsie Coleman — 21-year old model residing in Minnesota

Chelsie Coleman is a 21-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am currently living in the St.Paul, Minnesota area and was born and raised in a small town in Forest Lake, Minnesota. I love to travel, meet new people, do spontaneous things, and appreciate the small things in life; my sense of style is very glam chic but behind the photos I spend 99% of my time in yoga pants with no makeup. I love spending time with family, friends and my two cats, and meanwhile I am currently graduating from Century College this month with an Associate’s Degree in Merchandise Marketing Management.

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

I first got involved in the modeling industry at the age of 12, when I signed with my first agency called Arquette and Associates at the age of 13. My first modeling debut was for Maurice’s, where I walked for a cause in their Rescue and Runway show when I was 14 and ever since I fell in love with the industry. Ever since I was young I loved watching America’s Next Top Model and always dreamed about being a model so when I was old enough I started applying for agencies and shoots on my own at age 12. I am so excited and blessed that my dreams are now becoming a reality.

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

My personal goals are to live a positive and healthy life and to live in the moment. In five to ten years I see myself living in Los Angeles as a successful fashion blogger for a magazine or something in the lines of fashion marketing. I would also like to be a prominent model in the industry by then as well, and hope to have an amazing husband by then, and beautiful children that are healthy and happy.

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

Living in a state where modeling and fashion isn’t as common as in other places, it really depends on how often I model. Sometimes it’s a couple times a week and others it’s once a month or every couple of months. I have been a college student and also worked full time on and off making it difficult to balance modeling into that, for example, this month now that I am done with school I have a lot of photoshoots shoots, interviews, and extras lined up for the months to come. I mostly do photoshoots anything that is high-fashion, glamour, and life style.

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

One of my best experiences in the industry that I have had was meeting Janice Dickinson and attending one of her modeling seminars through Privilege Model Management. She was so nice and gave me a huge hug and answered a lot of questions that I had about how to be a successful model. One of my worst experiences I have had in modeling was when I auditioned for Wilhelmina and was rejected because I was an inch away from the sizing requirements.

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

One of my most embarrassing moments as a model was when I landed my first audition with Disney Channel when I was 13, I read a monologue from Hannah Montana and nailed it on the first round. I was then invited back to meet with the producers and acted out the monologue on camera the second time around and completely forgot all the words and froze up. I was so nervous sitting in front of five producers… Let’s just say I didn’t land my first audition.

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 the stamina of body image in the industry. I think models can be all shapes and sizes and be beautiful and considered for any job, not just the girls who are 5’8 and meet the industry standards.

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 to workout about 3 to 4 times a week doing cardio, crunches, and weights. As of right now I’m trying to get my eating habits fixed, as I would only eat a couple meals a day or would completely forget to eat when I was overwhelmed and busy and it was very unhealthy. I now am working with a nutritionist who is helping me with my eating habits making them normal again, and my goal is to eat 3 meals a day and a couple small healthy snacks. Nutrition and exercise is very important to me because both of those is what helps you get through your day.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

An interesting fact that people don’t know about me is that I went sky diving last summer and completely fell in love with it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I have already spent a lot of my life changing my looks cosmetically and physically and it made me look better but it didn’t fix how I felt inside. I wouldn’t change anything about myself and if I did it would be to live a more positive lifestyle.

If you had only 24 hours left to live, what would you do?

If I only had 24 hours left to live I would tell all the important people in my life how much they mean to me and how much I love them, then I would book a one way ticket to Europe because I have never been there before and go to as many places in Europe as I can before those 24 hours run out.

Visit Chelsie Coleman’s website for more photos and information

Apr 26 2016

Interview with Maggie Dickey — Actress, Model, Artist, Dancer, Singer

Maggie Dickey is a 21-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m Maggie Dickey and I am a Dyslexic Artist born in Bellflower, California. I have been doing the arts since I was very young and have been pursing it ever since, while going to school and will eventually go to the University of Minnesota to get my BA in theatre. I have a passion for anything and everything artistic, love to make others laugh, and would love to become a comedian one day as well.

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

I was a sophomore in high school and I was just super determined to start modeling so I started using Model Mayhem, while being very careful, and still. My parents help me gain the confidence to succeed in this industry because of how much they respected and supported my dream. If it wasn’t for them I would not be where I am today.

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

To be honest I don’t want to imagine my life in 5 to 10 years because honestly I’m living in the moment, and personally hate being on my phone in front of people, as I think it’s so rude. But anyways my personal goals would be to be happy and have at least two Dalmatians, as they are my absolute favorite since I was a kid, and 101 Dalmatians is my life. I would love to get as far as I can in this industry, love making and creating things with other creative people, and hope to work with Lady Gaga one day.

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

Whenever I can, but it honestly depends on the job I get, and I love just doing photo shoots for free because I want to see how I age and do a big video of all my pictures at the end of my life. I honestly just love making art, and definitely am not a runway girl… I’m way too short and it’s just not my thing, I am definitely an actress.

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

My modeling experiences have been great, as I’ve just met so many wonderful and talented people. I love working with others like I said before, and feed off of other people’s creativity, while modeling clothing and being able to keep it afterwards is like my absolute favorite thing. Bad experiences would be just men making awkward comments while taking my pictures… Need I say more?

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

You mean my entire career right? That’s what being a talent is.

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

Definitely the height for runway models and the weight. I just wish everything was more natural and set a better example for younger women, as I still feel the pressures of the industry and my weight. I still get self conscious about my body and I do this stuff for pleasure.

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

Exercise definitely makes me feel good about myself and I can eat what I want the more I exercise so I like working out.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a Lady Gaga fanatic, she is my inspiration and I love her dearly, but I feel like everyone knows that because I make it so obvious. I am dyslexic and have struggled in school my whole life, the school systems made me feel like an outsider and that I would never be as smart as the other kids. I felt like I would never amount to anything; I was also sexually abused when I was young and it affects me to this day. I believe in justice, freedom and Woman’s rights.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Why? I was born this way! No one should feel they need to change anything about themselves!

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I would definitely love to be able to fly… Just so I could get to auditions fast and get to see people I haven’t seen in a while quickly, I want to travel without having to pay, I would love to be able to go to different projects in different countries in one day!

Apr 04 2016

Interview with Mary-Pat — Irish gogo dancer and model

Mary-Pat is a 24-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in New Ulm, MN and raised in a small town called Sleepy Eye, MN. I’m the fifth child of six, and grew up dancing at the age of 5 and also danced on my high school dance team, as well as also involved in volleyball, and figure skating. My sophomore year I left my local High School and enrolled into online schooling and attended a performing arts school in Minneapolis, MN. My hobbies and interest include go-going dancing, modeling, lifting weights and working out, nature, traveling, and meeting new people.

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

When I was 15 I had the typical teenage dream “I want to be a model”, and after talking to my parents about it they both agreed to enroll me into a performing arts school. Little did I know how much work and commitment modeling really requires, but I found a passion for it ever since.

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

My professional goals would be to own my own dance studio or company. I would also like to go back to school to become a lawyer or business management. Personal goals would be just to be genuinely happy in life, and I’d like to travel as much as I can, and Gogo dance for some of the biggest music festivals. I would also love to own a miniature pot belly pig! haha I always told myself I would own one as a pet… they’re so cute!

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

I usually do all my scheduling a month in advance due to my full-time job, so I would have to say I do a minimum of 3 photo shoots a month. The most I’ve ever done was 7 photoshoots within a month along with working my full-time job and gogo dancing at a few clubs on the weekends and doing promos as much as possible. When I first got into modeling I registered as a petite model so I did a little bit of acting and commercial work. Now I do a lot of glamour, print, lifestyle, and promotional modeling.

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

I was a Corona light model for the Kenny Chesney Big Revival Tour and got to shoot t-shirts off with a t-shirt gun and danced around on stage in front of 60,000 people. I also gogo danced for sisqo, from the thong song. So those were pretty exciting experiences. Being able to work with some really well known photographers around my area and collaborate with them along with other models is one of the best experiences to me because nowadays I feel like the industry is full of fake and scum bag people.

I’ve had a few bad experiences with photographers and models. I once had a photo shoot with a photographer that would try to hit on me or make inappropriate comments. Let’s just say that shoot lasted about ten mins and I ended up giving him a piece of my own mind and told him screw himself. I don’t take shit from anybody, that’s probably why I get called a bitch a lot but I feel like that’s a trait you need when you’re involved in this industry, as it’s so easy to get tricked into things you don’t want to do and get taken advantage of.

I’ve also had a bad experience once with a model’s mother: back when I was attending a performing arts school I would always attend IMTA’s -which stands for International model and Talent Associations- every year, and which was basically a huge competition among models, actors, musicians, and others, where you were scouted out by some of the biggest modeling, acting and talent agencies around the world. Long story short, I had a dance routine that I was going to do for my talent, and after I did my cold reads and went back to the dressing room to get ready for my talent I noticed my dance shoes were gone along with my bottoms to my costume, and I wasn’t able to do my talent due to not being able to find my things so I was super bummed out. Later on I found out that one of the model’s mother was the one that stole my shoes and bottoms, and she felt so bad that she returned them to me after everything was done and apologized for her mother’s behavior. I was in shock… people are just shady.

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

This one time I was doing a steamy Valentine’s Day shoot and it was “that time of the month”. During the shoot, my tampon string decided to make an appearance and say hello. The way the photographer approached me about it was just hilarious! The look on his face was priceless! Thankfully he’s a good friend of mine so it was more funny than embarrassing.

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

Health and fitness is a huge part of my life, and I believe exercise is the best way to cure anything, as exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy, haha. I weight lift 5 to 6 days a week along with dancing, and I meal prep every Sunday night so I have a week’s worth of meals so it makes it easier for me to have a clean eating palette during the week. I usually eat skinless chicken breast, steak, fish, brown rice or quinoa along with mixed veggies, and I love a good salad along with a lot of fruit. Since I do weight lift I do take supplements along with a lot of protein, but don’t get me wrong, I do have a sweet tooth and I am only human. I love my carbs and junk food!, I am a chocolate lover, anc can never turn down pizza or a good chocolate chip cookie! I also love my ice cream… moderation is key!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a thumb sucker, and catch myself sucking my thumb like a little baby before bed every night, and also wash my hands in threes. I hate sleeping alone, and when I’m not sleeping next to my significant other I spray his cologne on my pillow and spoon it. I don’t drink milk.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I wish I had more patience and wasn’t so hot headed and stubborn. I’m known for being a little bit of a spitfire.

What features do you look for in a partner?

I kind of have a thing for bad boys, the ones that come of rough on the outside but once you get to know then they’re like a big teddy bear. I’m into guys with dark hair and blue or hazel eyes, and I find beards sexy but love a strong jaw line. A man filled with beautiful tattoos is definitely sexy in my eyes. I have a thing for muscles and broad shoulders., he’s got to like hockey -and if you like basketball that’s just a deal breaker-. Being with someone that cares about their health and physical appearance just as much as I do is always a plus. I’m a sucker for men with humor, and if you can make me laugh non stop on the daily and find humor in everything like myself then I’m sold. Looks are always a plus but personality is everything, and I’ll pick a guy with personality over a guy with looks any day. Someone I can talk to and confide in, who cares about my well being and dreams and fears and takes care of me. Basically, just be prince marching on my door step hahaha!

Visit Mary-Pat’s website for more photos and information

Mar 31 2016

Interview with Ashley Zlonis — Full-time mom, student and model

Ashley Zlonis is a 26-year old model residing in Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi! I’m Ashley Zlonis, I am 26 years old and I was born in Cedar City, Utah. I have an amazing husband and 2 children at home. Most of my hobbies include my children- they love going to parks, bowling, swimming, ice skating, and other activities. I am also a full time student for speech pathology, and model, so I stay pretty busy!

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

I actually started right out of high school, I was asked to do some kind of small modeling event, and I went to the shoot and met with some model scouts afterwards and they said after I had braces I would probably do pretty well. I never had braces done, I just tried it out anyways and never gave up. I believe in chasing dreams and working as hard as you can for something you want. I’m glad I never gave up because now it is a huge part of my life!

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

I plan to continue my schooling -while modeling full time and hopefully have my master’s degree completed by the time I’m too old to take cute photos anymore Hahahah – I’m kidding, kind of -I am a mom, so most of my goals include being a good role model and teaching my kids everything I possibly can. I want to make enough money to be very comfortable- So my hubby doesn’t have to work so hard and we can actually enjoy some vacations together. When I travel to shoot, most of the time it’s just myself and my 2 kids. I want him to be able to come explore the world with us, he deserves those experiences also.

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

The last 2 years my modeling has mostly revolved around pageantry. Around November I became Miss Jetset Minnesota 2015, and December I was selected by MGM Grand to compete for the Miss Las Vegas International title. This year has been loaded with work! I have shoots in California, Nevada, Aruba and Jamaica coming up and I am so blessed to have such an amazing job!

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

Best: I would have to say the best experience I’ve had from modeling was being selected to go to the Playboy Mansion -when I was 19. It was a dream come true and I was able to bring family with to experience the tour and meet everyone. It was incredible- loved it! Worst: I flew alone to Canada once for a “photo shoot” and it actually turned into a nightmare instantly. The guy was well known and credible so I didn’t think it would be an issue but he actually tried to attack me and sexually assault me. Luckily it didn’t happen and I was able to make an emergency call to escape but I will never be so naïve again in this industry. Scary situation I’ll never forget, and it was my first trip to Canada also.

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

Yes! One day I was talking to my husband about putting our daughter in pageantry, for scholarships, and I decided to try one -just to show her it was ok, if mommy does it so can you. I ended up winning a state title and had to go on to compete for Mrs. United States. It was terrifying! I had never competed like that before but I am so happy I did!

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

I wish there was just more public knowledge and awareness about what we do. A lot of people assume models are lazy, self centered, stupid, shallow, anorexic people, and that’s not even close to how we are. I know so many models that are insecure and scared before every shoot- or models that eat non stop and still remain thin. Stereotypes are ridiculous: I know so many intelligent, talented people in this industry and I am so happy to be one of them.

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

I workout steady, either at the gym or at home when I can’t get away, but the main thing I focus on is what I eat. I am obsessed with organic fruits and vegetables- I love seafood, fish and grilled chicken- I try and cut out as many sweets as I can, but I do have cheat sessions. Haha! I try and follow healthy food recipes on Instagram and Shredz -also sends me workout plans and supplements.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m very educated on alternative medicine and constantly teaching myself new things- like how to solve a Rubik’s cube!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I think plenty of people pick apart their physical appearance, I know I do. I have scars from a ventral stoppa hernia repair, my boobs are smaller after having 2 kids, my nose is not cute, my teeth aren’t perfect, I’m short. I could go all day- but after doing so many of these incredible events and being able to truly reflect on myself- I enjoy my life as is and I love myself, as I am. Flaws and everything.

What was the meanest rumor ever spread about you?

I live in a small town, so you’d be amazed at the things people come up with. I’ve heard that I’m only a successful model from sleeping with the photographers or agents, I made it to the playboy mansion because my family is rich and they paid my way, all of my photos are ridiculously photoshopped, I cheat on my hubby every chance I get, I’m a terrible mom- who is always out partying… you name it, Haha. Back in the day the rumors did bother me, and I used to fight with people constantly trying to defend myself, and one day I realized they didn’t matter.

All that matters is how I see myself, and how my friends and family members see me. I know I’m a great mom and wife. I know I worked very hard for 7 years to have the success and the followers I have now. Just because I’m living a different lifestyle than people do, in this area, doesn’t make me a bad person- it makes me unique. There are a lot of amazing people in this area though that have supported me from day 1 and I will always do my best to be there for them- like they were for me.

Mar 28 2016

Interview with Chelsey Langerman — Freelance Model and Fitness Coach

Chelsey Langerman is a 24-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised in Saint Paul, Minnesota and although I love Minnesota, I just always feel more at home when I visit my family in San Diego, California, where I plan to move someday in the future. I enjoy Mountain Biking ,Trek Bikes all the way, volleyball, yoga, paddle boarding, hot summer days, and last but not least working out, it is honestly my obsession, if you enjoy fitness and nutritional advice follow me on IG: BuffBlond I have a huge passion for animals and if it was financially possible I would rescue them all.

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

I started modeling when I turned 20 and have been for the last 4 years. Since I was 7 years old, I’ve always wanted to be a model, and I even remember looking at the Guess Ads.

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

I plan to get my personal training certification in August, then to own my own gym and to teach a HIIT training class, while I also plan to continue to inspire my followers and gain more along the way. A goal for myself is to get sponsored by a supplement and apparel company, and also want to compete in a bikini competition. I have so much determination to make this happen, so stay tuned…

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

I would say I do 2 to 3 photoshoots a month, and tend to do more shoots in the summer time, because there is so much more opportunity for shooting outside, and let’s face it, Minnesota is beautiful in the summer time. I do shoots of all sorts, my favorite shoots would be “High Fashion” and “Fitness”, I know complete opposites of each other, but I like to change it up. I’ve also have had experience in Runway Shows in MPLS, including “Mod Fashion Show”. I enjoy those when the opportunity calls for me, however being that I am 5’5 I don’t get to do those as much as I would desire.

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

Luckily I haven’t had too many bad experiences with modeling, as I make sure that I am straight forward with the photographer before the shoot takes place. I like to know what he or she has in mind in comparison to what I have in mind for the shoot, and it pays to be on the same page as the photographer. I also believe highly in showing up a little early before the shoot, especially if it’s paid, as this will allow time for you to prepare your outfits and make up.

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

Yes, I wish that Runway Modeling wasn’t so restrictive to the height limit. I mean I can be 5’11 with a pair of Christian Louboutin’s on…

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

Wow, it’s like this question was designed just for me, as previously stated, I love to workout, I work out twice a day 6 days a week. It’s great for your body and your heart to at least be active for 45 minutes a day at the very least! As far as Nutrition goes, Nutrition is everything, since having a nice lean fit body is mostly from what you eat. My advice to when it comes to eating healthy is “If it comes from the ground and isn’t altered, which means Non GMO, eat it”. Your body was meant to eat natural foods, not the overly processed foods that many of us have been addicted to. Follow me on IG: BuffBlond for more nutritional and fitness tips.

Would you change anything about yourself?

You know I am pretty happy where my body is at right now, However there is always something to learn, something you can better yourself at. “If you are not learning or growing, you are dying.”

What is your guilty pleasure?

Omg! my guilty pleasure is cheese cake! I absolutely love it, this is definitely one of my cheat meals that I have.

Visit Chelsey Langerman’s website for more photos and information

Mar 23 2016

Interview with Fenessa — Student, Model, and Fashion Blogger

Fenessa is a 20-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a medical student living in the Twin Cities area. Born in Edina, Minnesota to a Vietnamese father and a Vietnamese-Amerasian, who is half-Vietnamese, half-African, mother. My blog, My Noire Details, has only been around for a couple of months, but it is very dear to my heart and has combined all my favorite things: modeling, shopping, makeup, and writing. Modeling and blogging are what keep me busy outside of school.

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

My mom told me that when I was about two years old, while we were shopping I made my way into a studio and sat in front of the camera and had some pictures taken. Since then, getting pictures taken has always been something I’ve loved! I didn’t officially get involved in the modeling industry until senior year of high school, when I was took a beginner’s acting class. From there, things just happened!

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

My main goal is to graduate and get a job, all the while continuing to build my blog. I’d also love to meet “the one” within the next 5 years. On the topic of modeling, however, I’d love to continue getting my name out there and make it to the point where I get to travel for photoshoots or fashion shows!

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

When I’m not at school or with my family, I’m modeling. All my weekends are usually booked with photoshoots and fittings and fashion shows. I mainly do commercial and creative photoshoots, but lately have been involved in multiple fashion shows! With my blog, I’ve also been doing a lot of fashion photoshoots.

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

My best and worst experience modeling were both at the same convention in 2014. It was the worst experience because my self-esteem during the entire event was terrible. I was surrounded by tall, skinny, beautiful girls, making me feel like a complete stump. It was a horrible time for me, but looking back, going to that convention was the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. At that convention, I had the honor of meeting so many talented people and getting so much advice that would really launch my modeling career in the following years. It changed my outlook on everything, definitely made me stronger mentally and emotionally, and made me the person I am today.

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

Embarrassing, yes! At a fashion show, I had an allergic reaction to the fabric of the garment I was wearing and broke out into hives! It was so embarrassing because I had to walk a very long runway and make it look like there was nothing out of the ordinary when in reality, I wanted to scratch every inch of my body and soak in a hot bath at the same time.

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

I would really love it if being short was more acceptable. I understand the reason behind having tall models, but I’d love it if short girls had a chance too. Not just short girls, but anyone who is outside the 5’9″ and stick skinny norm should have a go at modeling too!

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 terrible at nutrition, as I eat whatever I crave and then work it off at the gym afterwards. The treadmill and elliptical are my best friends! I don’t have much of an appetite for anything too sweet, though. My sweet tooth fell out when I was young, I suppose…

Would you change anything about yourself?

Honestly, I would love to be taller. I am 5’3″ and would love it if I were 5’9″, but there is nothing else about me that I would change, just the height… But I’ve managed to make my short height work for me, and I believe that as long as I keep doing what I’m doing and believe in myself, everything will be ok!

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I would love it if I were musically talented! Both my parents are Vietnamese folk singers and those genes completely skipped my siblings and I. I love music and I love karaoke, but I’m not good at singing at all, and I wish I could sing and become a singer. That would be amazing!

Visit Fenessa’s website for more photos and information