More Research
I cannot explain to you how much research is KEY!!! It’s
really the key to many things. I mean
would you just go out and buy a new Ferrari without doing your research? I think not.
One way to research is to set up Google alerts with keywords such as “casting call” “fashion industry” “plus size model”, etc. I am not sure what you can do with other
email accounts, but if you have a Gmail account, you can set up these alerts,
which will generate an email about the topics based on your word choices. You can manage how often you would like to
receive these emails based on your preferences.
This is another good way to stay in the loop on things going on in the
fashion industry or whatever topic you choose.
Get out there and Network More
In my previous modeling tip post (2nd
Modeling Tip: Research and Network), I mentioned how networking is a great
way to get yourself out there! You
really should take advantage of any networking opportunity that may rise. You never know where a simple “Hello my name
is…” will take you. So besides working the room at any networking or fashion
events, continue your research and networking on foot as well as the web! Look at websites such as Plus Model Magazine,
Bloggers, etc., and subscribe to get there newsletters. Look for model searches or fashion shows in
your area to start. Be sure to pay
attention to what is being asked of you and make sure that you do not agree to
anything that is not “you”. You have to
remember that you are a Brand and you should not do anything that will harm
your reputation. During your search, if
it sounds like something that fits who you are, submit your name with photos.
Look into the local boutiques and stop by and pay them a
visit. In addition, do your homework on
the local designers and reach out to them.
Most of the times, business owners and designers are looking for models
to work with to shoot their products.
Clothing, Jewelry, shoes, and so on, always look better on a model than
a plain ole mannequin. This may not
always work but if you leave a great impression and if you are a type of look
that fits their vision or brand, it may happen later on down the line.
For example, I researched the local St. Louis area plus size
boutiques. I found only a few but one
was more interesting than the rest because they carried some of my favorite
plus size designers. I stopped by one
day to check it out and looked for the dress that I have wanted to try on in
person (shopping for clothes on the web sucks, lol). As I entered the boutique, the energy was
just amazing. I loved the music that she
was playing and the space was beautifully designed. A lady came from behind her desk and welcomed
me to the boutique and asked if I was looking for anything in particular. I told her what I was looking for and towards
the middle of my boutique experience, I asked her if she was looking for any
plus size models. I totally loved her
energy and thought that it would be a great fit for the start of my modeling
career. 6 fashion shows and several
photo shoots later; I am one of the faces of Honey’s Child Boutique.
Business Cards/Portfolio Book
After you get a few photo shoots under your belt, hopefully
with some of the tips I mentioned during the 1st modeling tip blog
post (My
First Tip for Aspiring Models), you should create some business cards. This will be great for passing around during
the networking events that you attend. I
love working with moo.com but there are many other websites such as vista print. You can take advantage of Moo’s 1st
50 free business cards and all you do if pay for shipping and any extra things
you may want on the card. Just click on
this link: http://us.moo.com/uploader/?type=businesscard&promotional=1&ppid=659
Now you need a portfolio that you should carry around with
you to auditions and casting calls. Not
all places require you to have one but it is always GREAT when you do! I would start with printing your best photos
that show your true character and versatility and purchase a portfolio from a
company such as Portfolio Mart. They have many different styles depending on
what you are looking for. If you decide
to purchase one on this website, be sure to SAVE 10% by using the COUPON CODE:
MM19400
Most Importantly Have Fun and Stay True to Self!!
Love,
Mimi
