My Modelling Experience

It seems crazy when I say it out loud, but I have been modelling for nearly 6 years now (with a 2 year break)…so 4 really. My older sister Carly was modelling in Toronto, and her agent scouted me when we ran into him at a restaurant one night. I was 15 and a shy tomboy at the time. I was extremely apprehensive to jump into a world focused on fashion and makeup. But I decided to give it a shot… why not? The modelling industry has its ups and downs, but at 22 years old I’m still doing it (so it must good…right?). So here is the good, the bad, and the ugly of being a model.

The best way I can describe modelling is: Hurry up and wait. 

Seriously, be prepared to wait: whether its a casting, a photoshoot, or a fitting. Is it so important to be on time, but be prepared to sit and wait until the client is ready. During fashion week, hundreds of girls show up to castings that can take HOURS. Plus, it can be really discouraging seeing so many gorgeous girls surrounding you. I find that one of the hardest parts of modelling. As soon as I start to feel confident as a model, I see 10 stunning girls going for the same job and I’m back to where I started. So the best advice I can give is not to compare yourself to other models.

I have to constantly remind myself that every model is different and clients are looking for a certain type of girl, and not everyone can fit into that category. Sure, I have bigger hips than a lot of models, but some designers may want a size 4/6, and not a size 2. (Those sizes sound completely ridiculous, but thats how it is). I've always had the stereotypical image of beauty in my head (big eyes, big lips, killer cheekbones), but I think modelling has changed that. I can really appreciate the beauty of being unique now, because those girls stand out the most.

Another thing I struggle with is the inconsistency of modelling. Being an average model in Toronto, it can be hard not knowing when you are going to work. I literally have no idea how much money I am going to make that month, and that can be stressful. Not having a 9-5 job is unpredictable, but I guess thats also one of the best parts too. You never know what your next job will be. Some are great, others not so much. I recently filmed a video for the Shangri La Hotel in Toronto, where I was filmed eating amazing food, walking into beautiful suites, and driving around the city in a Porsche Panamera. It is days like those when I realize how lucky I am to be able to call what I do “work”. 

BTS shooting at the Shangri La in Toronto with my husband for the day, Isaac  

The gorgeous bathroom in the Shangri La Suite where we filmed ($10,000 a night!) 

Just like any other job, there is the good and the bad and you just have to accept both. Overall, I have had a positive experience in the fashion industry but I am aware that this is not the case for a lot of models. The most important thing is to be happy and healthy, and not let the pressures of the modelling industry get to you. Surround yourself with supportive people, constantly work to have a positive body image, and just appreciate having the opportunity to model, because it won’t last forever.