Behind The Work in the lobby w/ Melissa during NYFW

I got to catch up with long time friend @mellooooh before she took off to her first but definitely not her last NYFW runway show getting her right with some headshots as well as getting a chance to sit down to see what Work she has up for 2019.

I am a wild card in life. I'm constantly getting myself Into new work to the point where I don’t even know what’s next. For most that idea is terrifying, but for me it’s exciting! Like right now, I’m sitting in a hotel lounge in Long Island City, NY taking everything in. On February 9, 2019 I’ll be walking down the runway for Michael Lombard during New York fashion week. After 23 yrs of living, I never thought this would happen. Did I forget to mention I’m 5’5”?

I used to think that was one of biggest weaknesses next to being camera shy for a “model”. My height is something I can’t fix, but thank the lord for heels! As for being camera shy, I usually try to connect with the photographer so I can feel more comfortable. Maybe crack a joke here and there because I’m a naturally goofy person.

When I first found out I was going to walk in NYFW, my mouth dropped and I went screaming throughout the house. I really didn’t think I would have the opportunity so it’s truly a blessing in my eyes.

Many people influence me from family to friends to media. My hard work and ethics were influenced from my parents because I’ve never met such hardworking people in my life. All my friends influence me to do better, be creative, and never settle because I make sure to surround myself with people who help me grow as an individual. America’s Next Top Model was my show growing up, but today I really admire Draya Michelle as a model and entrepreneur. She has great curves, beautiful skin, and her own clothing line. Brains and beauty which is what I strive for all the time.

The way I handle stress and pressure is through pep talks with myself, advice from friends and self medicating with cannabis. I self reflect everyday and it helps me to calm down and understand why things happened the way they did.

Modeling is definitely not the only thing I do. I’m actually pretty good as drawing, so I’ll do that sometimes. I’ve worked in food, retail, computers, and dancing so do what you need to do to get by.

Don’t get it twisted though, I’m still an entrepreneur at heart so this year I’m looking to get started my exotic dancer’s clothing line started and maybe even a cannabis product.

I knew I wanted to model since 5th grade I just didn’t know how. My parents never thought of it until I expressed I wanted to go to modeling school when I was a senior in high school. They supported me and it helped me tremendously!

In 2019, you can expect to see footage from NY, possibly a Vday shoot, collaborative work with G93 and other local brands, a music video and hopefully a commercial.

To future and upcoming models, know what you want and where you want to go. Understand that everything in life requires sacrifices and it’s up to you to decide what that is.But first and foremost, don’t take anything personal and have fun!

You’re probably thinking how does all of this tie into Cali exclusive and G93? Well I’ve been working with Greg since I was 18 and I’ve always supported his vision and ideas, from Cali exclusive to the work he does now. The clothes is great quality, stylish, and affordable, but also black owned! I’m excited for G93 and what it has in store for 2019.