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Photography is an extraordinary and ever-evolving artistic medium. With widespread technological advances like digital cameras, editing software, and social media, it's become simultaneously easier and more challenging than ever to pursue a career as a photographer. In the digital age, it's becoming easier to create and share content but harder to stand out. Sometimes it's difficult to discern a "good" photographer from an unsustainable trend-follower. But I believe this Beautifully talented ,young individual has proved that she's got what it takes !! Meet Laura Asanger
B: What is your end goal? Laura :To work in the medical field and have photography be a part time job.
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How long have you been designing? Although I have been an artist for as long as I have been able to hold a pencil, I started taking design seriously about 3 years ago, in 2013.
 Alexandria van romer. Jessica Rivard. Britney bors Truluvmedia fashion show Who inspires you? Of course I’m inspired by big names in jewelry such as Betsey Johnson (for costume) and David Yurman (for fine jewelry). But in everyday life I am inspired by the ever growing community of women I am engaging with who are fearless in the pursuit of their dreams. If they can do it so can I. And if I can do it, there is nothing stopping YOU.
How long have you been modeling?
When I was 16 I had a boyfriend (now ex) but I met his friend who was super into photography. I was no model back then, just a massive hearted dreamer and believer in myself and we linked up and started working together. I actually credit most of my success to Tom Donkin and all the help I got from him. We did photoshoot after photo shoot after photo shoot. And he never charged me a dollar. We always had a pact if either of us makes it and comes out on top we're gonna bring one another with us. Most of my photos came from him honestly. My loyalty lies with him as far as photographers go. I think I helped get him a lot of business, people would see my photos and ask “who shot that!” And I'd always say “tommy did” and now I feel like he's so so busy with shooting people.. and now he gets paid ;) so I would say I 'practiced’ sense I was 14 and started shooting at 16 and got signed when I was 19 to REACH model management, owned by Alycia Kaback. At 21, during fashion week in NYC of 2016 I got noticed by Luis Nunez and signed to CLAVON owned and run by Leonard Clavon. So unofficially I've modeled for 6 years. Officially (paid) only about 2 years
What’s a typical day for you?
I live in Pennsylvania, not in NYC. So for ME a typical day is going to work and being with my family and giving my puppy kisses, a normal everyday life really. While on call though? My “model life” if you wanna call it, a typical day in nyc for me is running around the city to be on time for various castings/go sees, anywhere from 1 to 7 within a day, subway rides, buying bandaids for the blisters I get lol, walking for designers, waiting for hours at times, eating and bookstores in my down time. I feel like I have two very different lives but I love it
What's your favorite part?
Oh my goodness… I don't even know how to answer that.. my favorite. I would say how much modeling has personally helped me. My confidence is outstanding, it's humbled me, and it's made me proud of myself. I grew up with a lot of self hatred and internal conflict. Modeling has been my own personal therapy session in a way. I love how it's a constant push, you can't just be “good” at it.. you always have to work and work hard for it. A model is a title you have to earn, and work your ass off. You can't just be a pretty girl and do nothing with it and tell people you're a model. You're not. You have to be dedicated to travel and not having money and giving up your friends and family and life at times. You have to be willing to not sleep for days on end and you have to be willing to basically hand yourself over to the industry. So I think my favorite part of modeling is how much its opened my eyes and helped me grow up. I think it's a common misconception that modeling is “easy” .. it's not. It's hard work and it's grueling and times and very tiring. You hear no twice as much as yes, you come in contact with a lot of criticism and even some nasty comments. You give up a lot of yourself for others in a way, and it makes me kinda laugh because most people think models have it so easy. But most could not do our job. So i'm really in love with how strong modeling has made me, and all that it has taught me. How was home life for you growing up? My home life was a good one looking back. Though in my adolescence I rebelled so bad. I was no good at school and I was really weird so a lot of kids didn't like me. I'm a very social human so that would really hurt my feelings and I think I took it out on my family a lot, which caused problems. My family is a little different then all the others I've been around.. not that I would EVER change it. My parents are very old school and my dad was always really strict. So naturally we would butt heads A LOT. I went through a really rough phase and ripped my whole family apart for about 4 years which took a toll on all of us. I think I always felt like I didn't belong due to knowing about my adoption, at the time I had the mindset that they couldn't possibly love me the same as they would their own and I let it harm our relationship. Now, years later I know I've never met humans who could love me more. They saved my life and I owe them all my gratitude. I would have nothing without them, including modeling. Id never have had this chance without them extending their hearts to give me a life I didn't when they met me. So my home life has been a rollercoaster to say the least. And I've hated the ride at points but never would I change it. My loyalty to them was earned in time and my family became my world. 
Were you always supported in your endeavors?
Mmmmm. I wanna say yes and no. I think a lot of people laughed at my dreams or thought of me as silly. My mom has always been supportive and has always been my biggest fan, my father was more strict and serious about it. I think he wanted more for me and didn't want me to “throw my life away” on a silly dream. I've seen A LOT of money go down the drain chasing my dream (though end result is and always will be worth it) but he hated how much id do things for free or bend over backwards for nothing in return. So, I wanna say my family was supportive though at times it caused fights and issues. I never had a lot of friends but I learned as I got older that a lot of teachers and former classmates were impressed with me for really doing it, and achieving the title.
If you could shoot with your favorite celebrity who would it be. And what kind of concept? Angelina Jolie. Not even a question. I'm not big on celebrities, I hate ego and to me they're heart beats the same as mine.. were the same.. but she to me, is royalty. I'm in love with her. I'd leave my boyfriend for her.. not even joking ? I think I'd want to do a shoot with her and children of every race and color, the idea would be that we are all human and we all matter and they are all loved. I'd want it almost candid, laughing and smiling and I'd want someone to feel love through the photograph, I'd want people to see it and feel unity and cared about. I'd want the photo so be so powerful that whoever is seeing it feels something in their heart.. who better to choose then Angelina Jolie. I'm not one for idols but I look up to her tremendously for so so so many reasons. That's one person I'd pay money to have the chance to talk to. Ugh. I wish so bad. Who is your favorite designer? .. whoever invented sweatpants honestly. Real MVP. Any other additional hobbies? I love to write to people. Not anything particular whatever is in my head really, but if you're in my life then you've probably received a lot of letters from me. I love to walk.. 
What is the biggest challenge you faced in your career
UGH. There's a few answers to that. I'd say the biggest was learning that it's okay to hear no.. cuz you do. Alot. I would get so down and out on myself for not being “perfect” enough for the industry. It took some time to learn that there's always gonna be someone who doesn't want or like your look. I remember I went to a casting and the casting director was so mean.. literally picked apart everything about me, I didn't cry there, but I definitely left trying to keep it together. I just couldn't understand why he was so mean. But at the end of the day it doesn't matter. Some directors are mean and rude and some are super sweet and totally awesome to work with. I had to learn that I'm not perfect and that's okay but I'm me, some will LOVE my look and some will HATE it. But that in the end it doesn't really matter. I think I learned that it's what you present from within that matters. Not my appearance. I've landed a few jobs solely on my personality and that's a pretty big win. What has been your biggest achievement? I've had a couple but I'm gonna say I don't have a greatest achievement yet, I've still got to much I wanna accomplish so that's an open-ended question for me. 
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In 5 years.. oh no.. I feel like I'll be so old by then. I would say in 5 years I'll have international representation, some campaigns under my belt and I'll have grown enough balls to audition for the victoria's secret fashion show by then. I also hope in 5 years I'm married to the man I love, but anything can happen I guess. Also though I'm still the the thought process of how to execute my goal but I'd love to start a donation of sorts for children's homes and orphanages across the world, especially 3rd world or war stricken. Kids are my soft spot and there are so many children out there who need our help. They have nothing and nobody and they don't know what love is. My personal goal in my life is to give back to them and show them they matter and I care about them all. I wanna get an organization started to send drop boxes to the poorest of orphanages and children's homes. Fill them with stuffies animals and toys, books, clothes and diapers and especially food and formula. People have no idea how poor of nutrition these children have. Kids die everyday across the world in these homes they've been left in.. for various reasons but there's not enough food to go around for them all. You have no idea how hurt I get over the thought of their suffering. My biggest goal and ambition in my life is to save at least one life and one heart of a child with nothing. I wanna save them all, and I'm going to try, but if I can save one.. I'll die happy. 
What's your favorite quote?
“All that wanders is not lost” I think it's so sweet and simple but says so much. I find myself thinking about it a lot.. Do you have any shows or events coming up? Yes! December 10th I walk for ClavonsWear in time square What would you tell anyone doubting themselves? Do it. In the end you're only gonna regret not doing it. If it's a thought you think of then execute. If it's something you really want then get it. And do whatever it is you have to to achieve what makes you happy. Unless you're killing someone or something… then don't do it…..go get help. Who inspires you? My mother, grandmother and Angelina Jolie. All for their hearts… 
BD: What's your favorite part of modeling?? Being able to express myself in many different forms through an image. Every image tells a story. 
BD: What has been your favorite experience ? I’m not really into favorites because everything is unique and special in its own way, but one modeling experience I won’t ever forget is one of my first fashion shows which has led to many more. It was the CocktailsXCouture Fashion Show at The Ritz in Tampa, and it was organized so well I felt like I was doing the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. There was so much energy and as soon as I was off the runway, I craved to go back onto it. BD: Whats a typical day for you? ALLIE :There is no typical day for me, everyday I am either rehearsing for something or doing something different from yesterday...whether it’s filming a movie, modeling for a photoshoot, performing a festival...or sometimes hanging out at home and doing some yoga with hot tea.
 What has been your biggest achievement? Starring as the lead role in a feature film which comes out November 19th. Look out for “Scathing” at an outlet near you! 
 BD:Who is your favorite designer? ALLIE:If Heatherette was still around, that would be my first choice. But right now it’s a tie between Betsey Johnson and Moschino. Any other additional hobbies? ALLIE:Painting, hula hooping, fire eating, contortion, crafting, yoga, and reading.  BD: What's your favorite quote? ALLIE:“Teach me the rules and I’ll teach you how to break them.” This was my senior quote in high school. Do you have any shows or events coming up? I was recently casted as a performer for the Sin City Comedy and Burlesque Show at Planet Hollywood, and my debut performance will be November 12th with headliner Dustin Diamond.  BD: What would you tell anyone doubting themselves? ALLIE: Never ever give up! Look yourself in the mirror, tell yourself you are beautiful, amazing, and talented! You have a gift inside of you, find that gift and don’t be afraid to share it with the world. Stay positive even when you are down..what you send out to the universe is what you receive back. BD: Who inspires you? ALLIE: David Wolfe What are your rates? For modeling, it depends on if it’s local or out of state, and also depends on the project. My rates range from $100-$200/hr, and always a two hour minimum. For music videos or films, my rates range from $150-$200/half day, and $300-$500/full day. For performing, my rates range from $125-$500. Event: Red Carpet at Jingle Ball 2014 Photographer: Andrew Toney Photographer: Doug Ochoa Hair/Makeup: Lucrecia Suarez . Photographer: AJ Favicchio Hair/Makeup: Allie Sparks Stylist: Marissa Baker Wardrobe: Oy Vey Cafe Vintage Photographer: Eric Caparas Hair: Allie Sparks Makeup: Corinne Potter Stylist: Marissa Baker Wardrobe: Oy Vey Cafe Vintage Event: Suicide Girls Blackheart Burlesque Show St. Pete Photographer: Ryan Lindquist Photographer: AJ Favicchio Hair/Makeup: Allie Sparks Stylist: Marissa Baker Wardrobe: Oy Vey Cafe VintagE Photographer: Marlene Fox Hair/Makeup: Allie Sparks Photographer: Edwin Alvarado Hair/Makeup: Allie Sparks Photographer: AJ Favicchio Hair/Makeup: Allie Sparks Stylist: Marissa Baker Wardrobe: Oy Vey Cafe Vintage Photographer: Teppei Namiuchi Photographer: Minh Insixiangmy Hair/Makeup: Allie Sparks Lighting: Jesse Nobles Retouching: James Henderson Photographer: AJ Favicchio Hair/Makeup: Georgia Kaden Stylist: Marissa Baker Wardrobe: Oy Vey Cafe Vintage Migration brings change, Change brings New Beginnings, New Beginnings bring an Evolution of ME.” |
 | Can you tell me about yourself Richard? I am of Haitian descent. I was born in Cap-Haitian in Haiti. My father, Paul Ranold Petit and my mother, Gladys Jacqueline Castel both left Haiti and moved to Miami, Florida to make a better living for themselves and their family. Soon after they arrived in Miami, they sent for me to come and live with them. When I was very young, I would amuse myself by drawing landscapes, human forms and portraits. In addition to creating art, I also heavily influenced by listening to music. I was 11 years old was when I first discovered fashion and once I left elementary school and moved on the junior high school, my hunger for fashion took off. I realized that my ability to draw along with my eye for color meant that I had a calling for the fashion arts. I took art classes and began to create magazines and booklets for each fashion season. By the time I got to high school, I started designing fashion for the real-world challenges that were presented to me by school. During my senior year, I had the desire t venture into formal dresses. I continued my fashion journey by enrolling at Keiser University’s Fashion Design and Merchandising program. It was here that my design brand Papillon was born. |
What is papillon design?
Papillon Dezign is actually my alter ego. She is confident, sexy, and sassy with an attitude. She is always on the go and is always the center of attention. Spoiled? Conceited? She doesn't think so. She is a rebel with her own unique style. Call her the “It Girl”. In France she would be considered the “Je ne sais quoi" to my girl”.
Papillon Dezign is actually my alter ego. She is confident, sexy, and sassy with an attitude. She is always on the go and is always the center of attention. Spoiled? Conceited? She doesn't think so. She is a rebel with her own unique style. Call her the “It Girl”. In France she would be considered the “Je ne sais quoi" to my girl”.
 Why did you chose that name to represent your craft? Well Papillon in French means “butterfly” and I compare my life to one. A butterfly has the four typical stages of an insect’s life cycle. The first stage is the eggs that are laid by the female butterfly. These eggs then turn into larvae which is better known as a caterpillar. The third stage is when the caterpillar becomes a fully developed adult and starts to change. This is known as chrysalis. Once this metamorphosis is complete, you then have a butterfly. I, too, feel like I am going through different stages not only in my life but also in my journey as a fashion designer. |  |
How long have you been designing ?
Wow, let me see. I guess the best way to answer this question is to say my whole life. I was always that “art kid”. I was always sketching and coloring. My first piece of art was actually a live portrait of my dad sitting down in a chair with my baby sister on his lap.
Wow, let me see. I guess the best way to answer this question is to say my whole life. I was always that “art kid”. I was always sketching and coloring. My first piece of art was actually a live portrait of my dad sitting down in a chair with my baby sister on his lap.
What is your favorite part of what you do?
Everything from beginning to end. From “mind sketching” to actually sketching, buying the fabric, cutting the fabric, threading the machine, sewing the actual pieces together, all the way up to completing the actual garment. But it doesn’t stop there. My favorite part of this process is when people come back to me with their feedback. It gives me life.
Everything from beginning to end. From “mind sketching” to actually sketching, buying the fabric, cutting the fabric, threading the machine, sewing the actual pieces together, all the way up to completing the actual garment. But it doesn’t stop there. My favorite part of this process is when people come back to me with their feedback. It gives me life.
Do you have anything in store for the future?
To be honest, I try to live and take it one day at a time. Of course there are a lot of things I would love to do but I would rather live in the now and for today. If I do have something in store, I guess it will happen when it happens and when I get to that point…..LOL.
To be honest, I try to live and take it one day at a time. Of course there are a lot of things I would love to do but I would rather live in the now and for today. If I do have something in store, I guess it will happen when it happens and when I get to that point…..LOL.
| Where do you see yourself in the next five years? Woah…in the next five years…… Well, hopefully, I will be able to own a store or two, be the one of the hottest designers at Fashion Week every year, and be the most talk about designer at the Emmy’s, Oscars, or any big red carpet event. Who has been an inspiration for you? Music plays a big factor when it comes to influencing my designing. I’m also inspired by the greats such as Elie Saab, Versace, Zuhair Murad and Stephane Rolland. |  |
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 What is your favorite design so far? That is a very hard question to answer because everything I do I love and would wear LOL. They are all my babies! If you could design for any celeb who would it be? Another hard question to answer because I would love to dress them all. But to name a few Beyonce, Michelle Obama, Mariah Carey, and Rihanna. What is your greatest accomplishment so far? I would have to say graduating college and having the credentialing to back up what I do. Have you faced any challenges? Oh yesssss! With anything you do in life you would always have challenges. How did you overcome these challenges? With faith and having tunnel vision. |  |
 | Any collabs? or future shows you are excited about? I was excited to be part of World Fashion Parade for Peace. I also have the cover and a full spread in Creativ Magazine. I was able to collaborate with a great photographer by name of Sulaah Bien-Aime, Smart Model Agency, and the lovely Yordanos who is my heart. I also got a chance to work with the current title holder of Ms. New York Tourism, Fatena Qassem. Hopefully I’ll will also work on something for Miss Guyana and for Miss Universe. In terms of my personal projects, I will work with Janelle LaFond who is a phenomenal stylist from Tampa, Florida. So yeah, stick around. If you could describe your style in three key words what would they be? Whimsical, sultry, and fun Do you have an end goal? Some may wish for fame, others may want wealth, but my goal is to go back to Haiti and open a fashion school to give back to a gifted kid who shares the same passion that I have. What would you say to anyone who ever found themselves struggling to be a designer?( any inspirational words)/ Don’t let the world dictate to you. Create your own destiny. My motto is “ Do U” |
| Special Thanks: Behind every designer, there are always KEY individuals that take the journey with you. Without their eyes and their input, I would be stuck at the design cross road. Thanks to Giselle Castillo and Bernard Holley. These two have always kept me grounded and focused in fashion. Thanks to my college professor Nelly Tejeda-Rodriguez who is a constant resource. Thank you Dannielle Boyer for begin my supporting me in life. Thank you Corhinn Brunot you are an inspirational entrepreneur and constant support. SHOUT OUT to Creativ Magazine. The first publication i was featured in when I first started. To my Family, Dad i know you are not here physically but I know you are smiling up from above. My Mother my rock and my first love, my Brother Alex and my second rock and best friend Tamara Petit. To Friends ..... Klo Telfort and Nina Graham you both are STAR, Rose for always being there, and many other thank you for standing by my side. To Every Photographers, MUA, Hairstylist's and Model's THANK YOU SO MUCH without you guy i'm nothing. Last but not least Thank You Briana DeShields for taking time out to reach out and putting this piece together. It's people like you that makes me who I am today and make me want to push and work harder. |  |
CREDITS
Photographer: Dennis Madigan
Model: ( Ms Tourism New York 2016/17) Fatena Qassem
Event; World Fashion Parade
Photographer: Elucid Photography
Photographer: Sulaah Bien-Aime
MUA: Danica Britton
Hairstylist: Louie Takahshi
Model: Yordanos Teshages
Agency: Westhaven Management - Atlas Aranis
Shot at Prospect Park - The Boat House Brooklyn, New York
Photographer: Dennis Madigan
Model: ( Ms Tourism New York 2016/17) Fatena Qassem
Event; World Fashion Parade
Photographer: Elucid Photography
Photographer: Sulaah Bien-Aime
MUA: Danica Britton
Hairstylist: Louie Takahshi
Model: Yordanos Teshages
Agency: Westhaven Management - Atlas Aranis
Shot at Prospect Park - The Boat House Brooklyn, New York
GETTING TO KNOW MARY |
Toward the End of August I had an amazing opportunity to shoot with MARY WRIGHT.
while preparing for our shoot I was able to learn the inspiration behind the artist of TRIDENT SWIMWEAR. photos by: Why did you become a fashion designers? When I was younger my family did a lot of traveling, my father was an avid fisherman so I lived in my bikini growing up. Also my mother taught me how to sew, I still use her sewing machine from the 80's. I have wanted to become a swimwear fashion designer for many years. I started sewing 2.5 years ago full time teaching myself with trial and error and youtube videos. After many long nights I started TridentSwimwear and started selling online. |
The collection your wore for the shoot: new 2017 collection.
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What is your favorite part about being a fashion desiger? My favorite part of being a fashion designer are the photoshoots, I love adding a little adventure, whether we are paddleboarding or hiking to the best spot when all of the hard work comes together for a beautiful photo, it is so rewarding. 
What were your inpsirations for the designs? Each piece of a collection is named a different island from around the world, so I pull ideas from the island it is named, the culture, colors, shapes, styles.. |
What are your plans for the near future?
We will be finishing launching our 2017 designs and fabrics over the next 2 months online. We would love to get into men's swim trunks for the Summer of 2017! Angejolie will be helping us set up a few photoshoots where we will be setting up casting calls for models.
We will be finishing launching our 2017 designs and fabrics over the next 2 months online. We would love to get into men's swim trunks for the Summer of 2017! Angejolie will be helping us set up a few photoshoots where we will be setting up casting calls for models.
How do your designs set you apart?
Our designs set us apart because of my dedication and the amount of thought that gets put into each piece. We focus on sexy active swimwear with adventure.
Our designs set us apart because of my dedication and the amount of thought that gets put into each piece. We focus on sexy active swimwear with adventure.
Most of our pieces don't have wire or padding but are adjustable and still give you lift where needed. We are also not shy about showing cleavage or the beloved side boob.
This was by far one of my favorite shoots. Not only did TRULUVMEDIA get to trail out our new equipment for the first time. but we got to work with some amazing individual on the way!
As a curvier model who has been struggling with her "sexiness" since the new haircut
I had never felt more comfortable and happy with myself while wearing a bikini!
its pretty safe to say. trident swimwear gave me my groove back.!
As a curvier model who has been struggling with her "sexiness" since the new haircut
I had never felt more comfortable and happy with myself while wearing a bikini!
its pretty safe to say. trident swimwear gave me my groove back.!
CONTACT MARY WRIGHT OF TRIDENT |
Social media:
Facebook.com/tridentswimwear Instagram.com/tridentswimwear Website: TridentSwimwear.com Email: Mary@tridentswimwear.com |
Mary Wright
c. 850-324-0196
Designer/Owner | TridentSwimwear.com
AUG 22nd-3rd we teamed up with JOE T for drone footage.
BILL IRWIN: Lead photography
JAY DOOLEY: 2nd photog
TOM ROSEN: 3rd photographer( official first time shooting!)
c. 850-324-0196
Designer/Owner | TridentSwimwear.com
AUG 22nd-3rd we teamed up with JOE T for drone footage.
BILL IRWIN: Lead photography
JAY DOOLEY: 2nd photog
TOM ROSEN: 3rd photographer( official first time shooting!)
Matt addison and his world of eco-fashion
It’s a natural evolution for the times we are living in really. I think this whole idea of consuming needs to change. Fashion is a living art that reinvents itself every single season so why not refocus this art with a new attitude on consumption?
There are so many new eco-materials and eco-friendly productions processes, especially during this era of corporate responsibility. I think fashion is one of the most influential industries in the world, and with so many designers and companies we could surely change the industry by buying eco-designs from responsible manufacturers.
It’s a natural evolution for the times we are living in really. I think this whole idea of consuming needs to change. Fashion is a living art that reinvents itself every single season so why not refocus this art with a new attitude on consumption?
There are so many new eco-materials and eco-friendly productions processes, especially during this era of corporate responsibility. I think fashion is one of the most influential industries in the world, and with so many designers and companies we could surely change the industry by buying eco-designs from responsible manufacturers.
Matt addison was born and raised in Tampa Florida. Graduating from freedom high school, he began art design with his startup skateboard company called NUNCA skateboarding.
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Matt says that’s where his designing really began! Before that he really had no experience at all!
He got his big break at a trashion fashion show. He had access to to extra “junk materials” because he worked at a retirement home |
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His first design ever was called the urban business woman
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I was fortunate enough to meet Matt Addison at my pulse benefit in august. He came through in a clutch when i was in need for more male designers
Matt is also our lead graphic developer for TRU LUV MEDIA !!
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In five years he see’s himself as a hubb for a thriving art business specializing in graphic designs and clothing!
Matt believes "there is no limit to what you can create.
You can create the world with a single thought ,I believe in the laws of attraction.. Thoughts that present themselves can be created into reality!"
You can create the world with a single thought ,I believe in the laws of attraction.. Thoughts that present themselves can be created into reality!"
 Kamela was found via facebook! Mutual friend Janelle La Fond of JMI CLOTHING reached out for her participation. She was very generous in donating to the PULSE fashion showcase I was coordinating. Ever since the showcase we have been in constant contact. This woman is EVERYTHING | When it comes to defining who we are and what we stand for, friends, family and colleagues are a good starting point. All three present plenty of opportunities to review and refine our behaviour, hopefully with the aim of becoming the best version of ourselves. Beyond our family and friends, we look at films, magazines, public life, and colleagues to find people on whom we can model ourselves and who can inspire us.  |
 | I got the amazing opportunity to finally meet kamela in person. We met at the 14 plus foundation U.S open Charity event In NYC in between running around for fashion week. Working with Susan Gossage who works alongside the foundation to help raise much needed funds to build schools in Zambia. |  |
Today’s inspirational spotlight is on the amazing KAMELA FORBES.
 | Kamela Forbes-Matheson Can you tell me a little about yourself? I was born and raised in Nassau, Bahamas, and after attending college at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, I decided to hold my business degree in my back pocket and pursue a career in modeling. A day in the life of kamela forbes? Every day is different! That’s what I love about it...some days I have a super early call time and shoot all day, other days, I just have castings so I’m moving around the city all day, or traveling to another city/country for a shoot and other days that are slower I work on my Stella & Dot stylist business. |
 What is stella and dot? Stella & Dot is a social selling company that creates flexible entrepreneurial opportunities for women. Our boutique-style jewelry and accessories line is available exclusively through in-home trunks shows by independent stylist and online |  |
When did you start modeling?
I started modeling in the Bahamas when I was 11
What made you chose certain career paths?
I started modeling when I finished Business School because of my love for travel and adventure. I knew I would always have my degree to fall back on but wanted to explore the world in my youth. Now that my entrepreneurial spirit has kicked in, I wanted to find a career that mixes my love of fashion with the flexibility I need to continue modeling.
 | Have you faced any challenges? As in any business and in every lifetime you face challenges...They joy is in overcoming them and realizing how strong and resilient you are! Anything you’d like to say to anyone who doubts themselves? You can achieve anything you believe...a little hustle and heart will set you apart! Anyone you’d like to thank? I’d like to thank my parents who have instilled such great values and confidence in me to make me the woman I am today and I would like to thank my husband for being there to support me every step of the way |
| How would you describe your personal sense of style? Sophisticated with a little edge! Is there a celebrity style that inspires you? I’m more of a “Jackie O” type lady. who/what is your favorite designer/boutique/brand I love Cushnie et Ochs, they embody sophistication with sensuality. Favorite tv show/netflix series Empire! Things you’d like to see happen within the next five years. (for yourself,family, or the world in general) I’d like to have my own lifestyle brand, start a family with my husband and live in a world that safe to raise kids. Why should woman chose stella and dot? Stella & Dot is affordably priced, great quality, and trendy accessories. They stand behind their products and every purchase of Stella & Dot helps support a woman in business. Also, they donate millions of dollars to support charities such as breast cancer and autism.  |  |
Final words from Kamela
If there is anyone who is interested in a part time flexible home based fashion business, I would love to share some info with you about how this opportunity could change your life whether your goal is to make more money, have some girl time, become more fashionable or just become a better version of yourself!
www.stelladot.com/kamelaforbes, my email kamelaforbes@gmail.com if anyone wants any info on becoming a stylist and my Instagram handle @kamelaforbes
You can find more information on the work of the foundation at www.14plusfoundation.org.
If there is anyone who is interested in a part time flexible home based fashion business, I would love to share some info with you about how this opportunity could change your life whether your goal is to make more money, have some girl time, become more fashionable or just become a better version of yourself!
www.stelladot.com/kamelaforbes, my email kamelaforbes@gmail.com if anyone wants any info on becoming a stylist and my Instagram handle @kamelaforbes
You can find more information on the work of the foundation at www.14plusfoundation.org.
My Goal is to bring a different set of standards to Florida Modeling world.
Truluv Media and the Florida Central Creatives was founded to support anyone who has felt as though they were not good enough!
including Small business, local artists and charitable communities
We are here to root you on!
Truluv Media and the Florida Central Creatives was founded to support anyone who has felt as though they were not good enough!
including Small business, local artists and charitable communities
We are here to root you on!
since leaving New York my life has taken a turn for the better! physically, spiritually and mentally!
I was NERVOUS.
If people in Tampa were selective people in new york were going to be hard to tackle. They treated me as if i was a queen! Constant compliments and actual help!..not just from designers, assistants, and press but from the models!
Where in some florida markets. It’s always a competition
I was NERVOUS.
If people in Tampa were selective people in new york were going to be hard to tackle. They treated me as if i was a queen! Constant compliments and actual help!..not just from designers, assistants, and press but from the models!
Where in some florida markets. It’s always a competition
After taking on Miami and getting signed at my very first casting for a mother agency I remember what one scout specifically told me, ( GO TO NEW YORK) YOU WILL THRIVE!
Having florida funds and not NYC funds.. I moved north east. ….to ORLANDO
Orlando inspired me to do something more than posing in front of a camera for facebook likes.
Now i'm hosting and coordinating runway shows, apprenticing under bridal designers and scouting models for a local agency
The Grim Reality
The fashion world is very cut throat. I began my modeling career in Dallas. There I learned I was in an “ in demand market” regularly booked for shoots and runways. Three months into seriously modeling I moved to Tampa florida and noticed that the market for someone like me was non existent. I joined several florida modeling networks and realized the models killing the game in this region were shorter unconventional looks . ( not that I have anything against them) but i was flooded with bikinis, sunsets and sand.
My body was not ready for this
I have to work really hard. My body — I have a voluptuous body. I am not one of those skinny girls. I like to enjoy life. I eat in moderation and I take care of myself. Esp considering i'm constantly battling the 60 lbs i lost about three years ago.
For the life of me i was stuck doing TFP shoots. I realized Being Older, Darker, and shapelier that my modeling career may be at a hault. Fueled with angst I decided to begin “branding” myself to prove i was good enough to hang in the florida markets.
Fast forward about 8 months and I started to become really numb to the amount of “nos”. I started getting used to not receiving edits back or people just ignoring me in general.
I could shock you with the amount of discouraging stories throughout my last year but no one likes to read a ridiculously long blog.
It’s no secret that the media has made a big deal out of youth. Think about it: how many people have you heard say, “Gosh, I can’t wait to get wrinkles!” Worldwide, selling the idea of youth has made many companies billions of dollars.
If you plan on being in the fashion and runway field, the younger you are the better. The longevity for this type of modeling is extremely short for the majority of models involved. Agencies sign girls as young as 13 years old and tend to hesitate if a model is over 18.
My body was not ready for this
I have to work really hard. My body — I have a voluptuous body. I am not one of those skinny girls. I like to enjoy life. I eat in moderation and I take care of myself. Esp considering i'm constantly battling the 60 lbs i lost about three years ago.
For the life of me i was stuck doing TFP shoots. I realized Being Older, Darker, and shapelier that my modeling career may be at a hault. Fueled with angst I decided to begin “branding” myself to prove i was good enough to hang in the florida markets.
Fast forward about 8 months and I started to become really numb to the amount of “nos”. I started getting used to not receiving edits back or people just ignoring me in general.
I could shock you with the amount of discouraging stories throughout my last year but no one likes to read a ridiculously long blog.
It’s no secret that the media has made a big deal out of youth. Think about it: how many people have you heard say, “Gosh, I can’t wait to get wrinkles!” Worldwide, selling the idea of youth has made many companies billions of dollars.
If you plan on being in the fashion and runway field, the younger you are the better. The longevity for this type of modeling is extremely short for the majority of models involved. Agencies sign girls as young as 13 years old and tend to hesitate if a model is over 18.
This topic, like the height issue, is a reality of the industry that you don’t have to agree with but you will have to accept or at least get used to. It’s just a plain fact that agencies and their clients can get more work out of youthful models than those who already show the signs of aging.
When it comes to youth and modeling it doesn’t make sense to invest time and money in signing a model that is, say, 22 or 23. That particular model may only have a good 2-3 years before they start showing signs of aging like crow’s feet or other fine lines. This means more time devoted to Photoshopping and special lighting. No agency wants to deal with that.
When it comes to youth and modeling it doesn’t make sense to invest time and money in signing a model that is, say, 22 or 23. That particular model may only have a good 2-3 years before they start showing signs of aging like crow’s feet or other fine lines. This means more time devoted to Photoshopping and special lighting. No agency wants to deal with that.
persistancy like practice pays off
Some models do work their way into modeling (I have also heard models say that modeling is hard work and all models work their way into the business). These models track down test shoots and put together their comp cards and portfolios. They study and practice being a model by working on their expressions, posing, runway walking, hair styling, makeup, working in front of a camera, and learning how the business works. These models may work freelance or have nonexclusive contracts with a number of modeling agencies.
Remember the story of the three blind men describing an elephant? One man felt the trunk, another felt the tail, and the third felt the leg. Each had a different description of what the elephant was like. The modeling industry is the same way. The modeling industry is big and has many specialty areas. What I've experience will be much different what others experience. but at the end of the day
you have to do what makes you happy!
feel free to leave your stories( good or bad) to be featured!
Remember the story of the three blind men describing an elephant? One man felt the trunk, another felt the tail, and the third felt the leg. Each had a different description of what the elephant was like. The modeling industry is the same way. The modeling industry is big and has many specialty areas. What I've experience will be much different what others experience. but at the end of the day
you have to do what makes you happy!
feel free to leave your stories( good or bad) to be featured!
Star Shear
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Whether she is developing fresh cutting techniques, promoting education or trying new ways of coloring hair, Star Shear has shaped contemporary beauty.
You wouldn’t just divvy out your cherished treasures over to any-ol-fool on the street, right? Same goes with your precious locks and skin. Don’t hand your hair over to just anybody. Don’t risk walking out of a shady salon with the ever-agonizing sense that 1988 called and wants the “Working-Girl-Mullet” back. 
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Star shear of Hair Force barber/Salon is proud to be worthy of your follicular and epidermal trust!! She is my go to stylist for most publications and editorial shoots. She is a makeup artist, hairstylist and premiere barber. All of those qualities make her a one stop shop and a forced to be reckoned with.
My favorite part about doing live interviews is hearing and physically seeing the excitement and passion in one's delivery. While applying a color treatment, shaving up one of her favorite clients “Tilly” and sneaking in a buzz up for myself in between Star Shear radiates in her environment
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Star Shear was raised in New York. There was she was able to hone in on her skills as a make-up artist. Doubling as an accountant star decided to move to Florida and rebranded herself to get away from corporate stipulations . Upon her arrival to Tampa Florida she then decided to become a barber.
Being the only female barber in her shop she was faced with the challenge of having to prove herself to be twice as good if not better than any male barber.” you can be a good male barber and get clients, but you have to be a perfect female barber” With the help of her mentors Fransisco Valdez and Giovanni De La Rosa she was able to make it happen.
Being the only female barber in her shop she was faced with the challenge of having to prove herself to be twice as good if not better than any male barber.” you can be a good male barber and get clients, but you have to be a perfect female barber” With the help of her mentors Fransisco Valdez and Giovanni De La Rosa she was able to make it happen.
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Soon she was winning hairshows , competitions and bookings for editorals Style: edgy Favorite hair styles Men: comeover Woman: bob Emphasis:specializes in Makeover, professional barber, MUAH She Hopes to own her own shop called chicksthatfade.com. where sexy female barbers around the worls would be featured She says woman are taking over and only the strong survive ! Star ends our interview saying ” never give up, people will always try to make you feel some type of way. You cant give up and you must continue, constantly practice and better yourself! |
ia
Rates
Males-22
Females: 30+
Consult for color
Open to TFP must consult.
Instagram: Star shear
Facebook: star shear
Starshear@gmail.com
images featured: Briana Deshields
TruLuv Media, Tommy Tru, Lina Texiera. JCMurcia, Jim Lewis
Rates
Males-22
Females: 30+
Consult for color
Open to TFP must consult.
Instagram: Star shear
Facebook: star shear
Starshear@gmail.com
images featured: Briana Deshields
TruLuv Media, Tommy Tru, Lina Texiera. JCMurcia, Jim Lewis
