Suzette:  You mean you found out about Venus Diva Magazine and PLUS Model Magazine on a web search?

Monica: I found the Venus Diva Mag site and Plus Model Mag through links on a forum on OneModelPlace.com dedicated to "specialty modeling". Aside from online sources, I also read: "The Insider's Guide to Plus-Size Modeling" by Darrianne Donnelly, "The Ultimate Plus-Size Modeling Guide" by Catherine Schuller, and "True Beauty" by Emme
 
Suzette:  Your mom must be very proud, she told you to do your homework and it sounds like you definitely used your resources to do that!   Did someone coach you on your portfolio or just your mom with her own modeling experience?

Monica: I made the decision to join Myspace in order to publicly market myself as a plus model. Through Myspace I contacted Madeline Jones and other plus models, Fluvia and Mia Amber who helped me to assess my portfolio, recommend photographers, etc. However, I credit Madeline as being my mentor in the Plus modeling industry. My mother being a thin woman, kept encouraging me to stay strong, and to not let the word "plus" make me feel like I can't be as successful as any another "skinny" model out there.

Suzette:  I'm in awe, Monica! Models must dream about receiving coaching from names like Maddy, Fluvia and Mia Amber it's no wonder that you accomplished your goal since PMM last spoke to you.  Another wonderful thing is that you have your mother in your corner, particularly since she was a straight size model. You're very fortunate.

Monica: Thank you. Yes, I definitely feel blessed that such successful women would give an aspiring model the time of day by giving advice on the industry. I did my homework first then with confidence (and without being too bold) I asked these women for help.

Suzette:  Did you ever take any modeling classes?  What kinds of things did you do to develop your facial expressions and your posing?


Photo: Tru Diva, LLC