I had the opportunity to interview model La Toyia. She has not been modeling long, but has shown a great interest in the modeling industry. I can see her going far with her modeling career. Want to learn more about La Toyia, here is her interview.

Jchell: Where are you from?
La Toyia: Originally from Chicago and moved to Dallas, TX with my family in 1994. I am pretty much a Texan at this point.

Jchell: Where did you attend high school/college?
La Toyia: Mesquite High School / Class of 2000 and I attended Paul Quinn College in Dallas studying Accounting.

Jchell: What are some of your main interests and hobbies?
La Toyia: READING! I have been an avid reader since I was young and my range of interest fall into self-help, science fiction, urban novels, and so many more. If the book is engaging, then I love it. I believe in working out regularly as well and most of the time I could be found doing numerous activities with my husband and our two daughters 8 and 9.

Jchell: How long have you been modeling?
La Toyia: I have been modeling for 2 ½ years consistently.

Jchell: Are you an independent or agency model?
La Toyia: Independent.

Jchell: What was it like starting out as a model?
La Toyia: Intimidating. I had low self-esteem about my body and did not know if I would been chosen to work in different projects because all the models that I ran across where so pretty and well versed in modeling industry and I felt as if I knew nothing. I stayed quiet, soaked in everything, and learned my style and way. I can confidently say that after 2 years of training and researching I have become more comfortable with modeling and will continue to train to become better at my craft.  
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Jchell: Who is your favorite photographer(s)?
La Toyia: I have shot with Ebony Botchway (Heavenly Touch Photography), Addison Carey (Easy Street Images), Douglas Fairbanks, and Evette’s Photography but my favorite is with Presley Sheffield (Natural State Images). There has to be a certain level of repore and trust with your photographer and I believe we have developed a great understanding and he has a great eye for catching good angles. 

Jchell: Have you been published in any magazines?
La Toyia: My blog under Beautifly & Free has been published in online magazine (SwagHer).

Jchell: Are you a brand ambassador for any products or clothing line?
La Toyia: I’m a Brand Ambassador and Fashion Influencer for Clothing Line (The House Of Antoni Michelle) DollBaby Eyelashes.
  
Jchell: Besides modeling, have you done any acting?
La Toyia: I acted when I was young, produced, and directed a play I wrote myself but I have been focusing on my modeling lately. I am currently looking into acting opportunities now because I highly believe in getting our stories out our way that relates to the culture so that we all can grow and learn. 

Jchell: Let's talk about your beauty regimen.
La Toyia: How do you keep your hair and skin looking healthy? Plenty of water exercise and rest. It seems cliche but I spend massive amounts of time hydrating due to my oily skin and I find that the more water I drink the less oily I appear on camera or on a shoot. I cleanse and moisturize my face daily with non-oil based cleanser and I use a mask about twice a month. I take meticulous care with removing all of my makeup daily and I do not rub my face to harshly so as not to cause premature wrinkles. When I am in the sun for an extended amount of time, I use sunscreen.
 
Jchell: What are your favorite fashion trends you love?
La Toyia: I love to dress very feminine and the clothes have to fit very well for me to leave the house. I love colorful items and accessories are necessary. Hats, bracelets, sunglasses are my favorite go to and I wear heels with majority of outfits.

Jchell: Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to other models trying to establish themselves?
La Toyia: Be authentic in who you are because there will be many who want to provide advice and you must know your standards before you adopt someone else’s. Do not just attend casting calls and do your research on all upcoming projects someone may want you to participate in. Train and never stop learning and become more active if you have not already. Modeling requires stamina and standing for long periods. Having a strong mind and body will ensure success even when things do not work out you will be able to bounce back quickly because of preparation. Preparation is the KEY!

Jchell: Is there anything else you would like to add?
La Toyia: I am currently focused on my print work that I am doing with Impenitente by Monica Daniels to challenge myself to step out of the box and really push the limit with the art of photography. There will be many projects stemming from that brand/line and I am grateful to be a part of the projects. 
Here is a complete list of the projects I have worked on…

1. The Curvy Elite Plus Size Dancer 2017-2018 (Dancer and Team Secretary)
2. Thick N Sassy Curvy Queens Fashion Show 2016- 2019 *Chief of Staff and Model Trainer* (Runway)
3. Natural To Life Fashion Show Dallas 2018 (Model Trainer: Women and Children) (Runway)
4. RAW Dallas December 2018 for Uniquity Couture by Lisa Starks (Runway)
5. New York Fashion Week TakeOver February 2019 (Runway)
6. Backstage Extraordinaires New York Fashion Week February 2019 (Runway)
7. Plus Size Dallas TakeOver Show (Runway)
8. Impenitente By Monica Daniels Model Current (Print, Magazine, Runway, Commercial)
9. The Real Plus Size Of Dallas Fashion Show May 2019 (Red Carpet Host and Runway)

 
You can connect with model La Toyia on the following social media outlets:

Facebook: @T La’Toyia Warren and FB Page: @Beautifly & Free
Instagram: @mrsfoxylady_freetobeme and @beautiflyandfree
Website: www.beautiflyandfree.wordpress.com
Email: beautiflyandfreeme@gmail.com
 
​Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_coach

I had the opportunity to interview model Ashli. Not only does she model she is a business owner with an online boutique. I even order from her boutique and loved the price for two pairs of jeans (definitely check out her boutique)! To know more about Ashli, here is her interview.

​Jchell: Where are you from?
Ashli: Dallas, TX.

Jchell: Where did you attend high school/college?
Ashli: Skyline High and TSU (Houston, TX).

Jchell: What are some of your main interests and hobbies?
Ashli: I love reading, shopping and spending time with my family.

Jchell: How long have you been modeling?
Ashli: 3 years.

Jchell: Are you an independent or agency model?
Ashli: Independent.

Jchell: What was it like starting out as a model?
Ashli: My first experience was awkward and funny both at the same time. I pretty much didn’t know how to pose or what to do! It was funny the whole way around but I loved it! I was able to be myself and kill the shoot!!

Jchell: Who is your favorite photographer(s)?
Ashli: D. Lacy.

Jchell: Have you been published in any magazines?
Ashli: Voyage Dallas Magazine.

Jchell: Are you a brand ambassador for any products or clothing line?
Ashli: Yes!! Chars K Boutique one of the hottest online and based in the DFW.

Jchell: Besides modeling, have you done any acting?
Ashli: Not yet.

Jchell: Let's talk about your beauty regimen. How do you keep your hair and skin looking healthy?
Ashli:  I wash and moisturize my skin every day and I wear protective hairstyles. I actually went and graduated from cosmetology school.

Jchell: What are your favorite fashion trends you love?
Ashli: Any piece that shows who you are. Your style is what makes you different.

Jchell: Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to other models trying to establish themselves?
Ashli: Be Confident, Be Driven, Be Outspoken...stand for yourself and do what makes you happy!
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Jchell: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Ashli: Also don't forget to shop @ www.charskboutique.com.
 
You can connect with model Ashli on the following social media outlets:

Facebook: Ashli Harper
Instagram: @ash_elegant/@charskboutique_
Twitter: Chars K Boutique
Snapchat: ash_elegant
Website: www.charskboutique.com
Email:charskboutique@gmail.com
 
Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_coach

I had the pleasure to interview model Crystal. We have also participated in a few fashion shows. Crystal is beautiful as well as talented. I admire her strength and go-getter attitude. Here is her interview.

Jchell: Where are you from?
Crystal: I’m originally from Jackson, Mississippi but reside in Arlington, TX.

Jchell: Where did you attend high school/college?
Crystal: I graduated Southwest High School and college from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Jchell: What are some of your main interests and hobbies?
Crystal: I am a power-lifter competitor as well as a travel junkie, I love to learn about new cultures, ideas and people.

Jchell: How long have you been modeling?
Crystal: On and off for about 4 years.

Jchell: Are you an independent or agency model?
Crystal: Independent.

Jchell: What was it like starting out as a model?
Crystal: It is a challenge starting out. Anything that you are not use to is a challenge especially if it requires work that is unfamiliar.

Jchell: Who is your favorite photographer(s)?
Crystal: Renell Bell.

Jchell: Have you been published in any magazines?
Crystal: No, not as of yet.

Jchell: Are you a brand ambassador for any products or clothing line?
Crystal: Yes, I am FnX FIT.

Jchell: Besides modeling, have you done any acting?
Crystal: No, I haven’t.

Jchell: Let's talk about your beauty regimen. How do you keep your hair and skin looking healthy?
Crystal: Well, I try and drink a gallon of water a day, as well as using Olay sensitive skin cleanser, nothing to strenuous. For my hair I use a lot of protective styles.

Jchell: What are your favorite fashion trends you love?
Crystal: I love the sporty look. I am a competitor so, I am an athletic wear person.

Jchell: Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to other models trying to establish themselves?
Crystal: If modeling is what you wanna do, do not quit, anything worth having is worth working hard for. Stay prayed up.

Jchell: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Crystal: What you focus on grows, focus on you and your goals whatever they maybe.
 
You can connect with model Crystal on the following social media outlets:
Facebook: Fortenberry, Crys
Instagram: 4_10_berryfit
Twitter: N/A
Snapchat: critqueC
Website: pending
Email: crystal.fortenberry@gmail.com

Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_coach
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