Life As a Model

Hello everyone! Welcome back to my blog! :)

I thought today that I would discuss something that many people have asked me and that's about my career as a model and actress.

Working in this industry is definitely not easy, but the rewards are worth it, for me. It can be inconsistent, for sure, but I like to keep it interesting by doing different things. Anyone else feel this way? Just me? Ok, cool. lol

My journey started when I was 5 years old and I got signed to my first modeling agency. I then would model for clothing brands and I did my first commercial when I was 11 years old. I also took many acting classes from ages 3-7 years old, took fine arts camps all through my childhood, and attended an acting high school. You may or may not see me, but it was for Ovaltine Chocolate milk. I remember being on set for a whole day and having such a fun time! I worked with my friend, too, so that made it even better.

I would go on castings all the time, like I do today, but as a kid I really just wanted to be a kid. I didn't want to be obligated to driving to Miami for auditions all the time, so I decided to let it go for that moment in time. I would still model from time to time with photographers and friends, but I got serious about it over 4 years ago.

I realized that by not doing modeling and acting, I felt like something was missing. I always knew that I loved to model and be in front of the camera, but I was nervous. Why? I don't really know, but my guess is that I just wasn't ready to really "go for it".

Fast forward to today, and I couldn't be happier that I made the decision to give it another go. I'm not saying I've "made it", but I feel like I've made it pretty far from where I was and, thankfully, it gets SO much better. The journey is a constant work in progress whether it's getting updated head shots, taking workshops, going to the gym, reading books, researching, eating well, networking, the list goes on and on.

Going to castings and auditions can be a bit intimidating at first, but they give me such an adrenaline rush that I wouldn't want it any other way. I don't look at it as competing with others; I look at it as I am competing with myself. I have all the power to do my best and if I get called back, GREAT!, but if not, it's okay because I know there will be more opportunities out there for me. I see auditions as a time to play dress up and to play pretend, so I choose to have fun with it!

I used to get so bummed if I didn't get booked after an audition or to do print work/ photo shoots, but I've realized that it's because that booking was just not meant for me. There is room for everyone to succeed in this business. It's up to you on how much you want it!

I love my job and I am so thankful to say that I can live my dreams. It's truly amazing how many great people I get to meet because of what I do

As far as the money goes, I like to keep side hustles because I never like to put all my eggs in one basket. I wait tables, I'm a yoga instructor, I sing and do voiceover work, I'm a plant based nutritionist, I sell my old clothes, and the list will continue to go on and on. I think it's important to have multiple sources of income because it keeps things interesting! Dontcha think? :P

Anyways, I thought I'd give a little back story on part of my journey.

Life is meant to be lived to the fullest, so today, I invite you to step out of your comfort zone whether that's to change your career path, move somewhere new, start a new gym membership (IDK, anything!). Sit down and write down the things that matter to you and decide how you will get there.

I say go for it! Give this life all you've got!

Because, why not? :)

Much love!

Ash x