We interviewed three of our starring models from the Your Style Your Way campaign to discuss their experiences on set, style inspiration, and advice on how to become a model...
Miriam starred as our lady in red in the Botanical Garden scenes
What was it like working on the video shoot?
My experience was extremely positive. The entire crew were very welcoming and warming from the moment I arrived. The location was beautiful - I had never visited the Birmingham Botanical Gardens before!
In my modelling career I hadn’t done much video work prior to this year. So having the chance to do some more again, was brilliant!
Could you tell us about your scene in the Botanical Gardens?
Prior to the shoot I knew I was going to be in water, I hadn’t seen exactly what the ‘pool’ looked like. I was extremely glad to hear that it was empty, so no fish which relaxed my mind. I don’t quite know how I managed to do it, but I did! I was in for around 10 minutes, and I don’t think I’ve ever been so cold in my entire life. It didn’t help that the day before I just arrived back into the UK from Africa! But I had my towel and dressing gown at the ready for once I was out. I give thanks to hand dryers and hot chocolate :)
Miriam braving the water!
How did you get into modelling?
I got into modelling towards the end of secondary school. All my friends would tell me ‘you should model’ that I ‘have the look’. Another friend of mine had a photoshoot to help her with personal confidence and for some fun, and I liked the photos that she got. So I contacted the photographer she worked with, and had a photoshoot to see if firstly I would enjoy it, and secondly if I was any good!
And from there that’s how it started. I did a lot for free to build my confidence, portfolio and industry contacts. And now I’m a professional agency and freelance model.
What is your favourite memory from the experience?
I think my favourite memory from the experience was the moment I left the pool! (Haha just joking) ... It was actually when I left the pool but for the feeling of accomplishment, and being able to meet the goals of what’s required. That was a good moment :) And hearing all the photographers and crew members saying that the shots they got were great!
Still Photo of Miriam in the water
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to become a model?
I would say, you’re going to get a lot of rejection. You’ll have to sacrifice a lot. But if you truly love it and want to make it work, it’ll all fall into place and you’ll have the best time. Networking is key in the industry, that’s how I got this job! Through Jessica Oates one of the photographers. I previously worked with her back in July and stayed in touch and then this opportunity came along! And also, don’t change you. There’s only one you in the world, bring to the camera your personality.
Do you have any style advice?
Honestly my fashion sense is pretty much non existent on a daily basis. I like to be comfortable. I spend a lot of time at the gym so I tend to be in gym wear, which is comfortable, so win win! I only wear makeup when I’m on a photoshoot to look after my skin as much as possible. Drink lots and lots of water, I know we hear and see that all the time but it’s so true! H2o is the way forward!
What is your favourite piece of jewellery that you wore in the video?
I literally was in love with everything I wore. It was nice wearing jewellery that matched and complimented each other, and the silver worked really well against my freckles.
Sophie starred in our hotel room and lobby scenes
Could you tell us what it was like behind the scenes filming at the hotel?
I loved filming at the hotel! It’s always nice when you get a job on location because you know the shots are going to look great. We had a fun day using all the props and rooms in the hotel and I can’t wait to see the finished video.
Could you tell us about your journey of becoming a model?
I never thought about getting into modelling I always wanted to be a vet but I got scouted when I was 15 by Boss models in Manchester. This happened to be very good timing as my veterinary career was out the window when I passed out at the sight of blood in a science lesson. I’m so glad I got given the opportunity as I have loved every minute of the journey and it has taken me to some amazing places around the world.
Sophie modelling silver bracelets by Nomination and ChloBo
Who is your fashion inspiration?
I would say my biggest inspiration in the industry is Gigi Hadid. I LOVE all of her work. She always looks amazing and you can tell she really works hard.
Do you have a favourite piece of jewellery from the set?
All the jewellery was beautiful but I’m a sucker for sparkly rings. There was a pear shaped engagement ring that I kept on ALL day, I LOVED it. I made the mistake of posting a picture on Instagram and had a lot of confused friends wondering why I hadn’t told them my news!
What was it like behind the scenes of the video and filming on location at the hotel?
It was interesting to see the transformation of the ideas pictured on the mood board created into reality. I think the styling and set for each model really complemented the jewellery pieces.
How did you get into modelling?
I used to model for the fashion students at college and was always told to go for it. I decided to approach a few local agencies and took it from there, building up my portfolio and then applying to more agencies throughout the UK.
Katie filming in hotel lobby
Who are you inspired by?
I'm inspired by my parents who have always encouraged me and my siblings in any venture we've decided to take on.
Do you have a favourite piece of jewellery from the set?
All of the pieces I wore were beautifully designed, but I'd have to say my favourite was the diamond ring - the design was beautiful and bedazzling, something every girl would love to own!
Thank you ladies for sharing your stories and starring in our campaign!