MISS LONDON

 

MISS LONDON TO YOU

by Marius Deuce

LCN: Hey, what were you doing before you sat down to do the interview?

ML: I just got done cooking grilled chicken for my toy poodles… I have to keep my warriors strong!

LCN: Oh you was feeding the pups, gotcha. Well, first thing first tell LCN, who is Miss London?

ML: Miss London is a humble, but extremely driven, and passionate entertainment personality. I sing, I model, I turn the party up, and I’m the one you need to pay attention to.

LCN: Trust me, I am (smile). You’re very accomplished and yet you are very young.  You started modeling at age 16. How was life growing up?

 ML: I am blessed to have an extremely strong, and intelligent woman for a mother. Growing up she was it. My mother always placed an emphasis on education being first priority, so really my start in modeling at 16 was late. I could have been doing it much longer but school was first.

LCN: What is it about your personality and your upbringing that made you so passionate about modeling?

ML: I wouldn’t say I am only passionate about modeling, I love modeling, but I am more so passionate about the business ventures that can materialize out of my modeling career. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit since I was kid, so I think that plays into my career decision.

 LCN: How often do you travel back to the U.K.?

ML: I haven’t been back in a couple years, since my grandfather passed. I used to go back 3-4 times a year.

LCN: The Urban Modeling industry has a fine share of models from the U.K. What lures them over to the U.S.?

ML: The hip hop industry was started in America. So it only makes sense to come here, its easier to network, and get gigs over here.

LCN: Can you name every urban model that’s from the U.K. in the Urban modeling industry?

ML: Honestly I can’t. I’m here so that’s all that matters. I’m here to focus on my career and make it for the London girls that don’t have the opportunities I have been blessed with.

LCN: How did you become to be so comfortable in front of the camera?

ML: I think once I saw things really quickly progress, I saw that I could really do this. I met with a booker Yvonne Coffee at Next Modeling Agency Miami of pictures I mailed in from TFP shoot I did. It was my first shoot, I didn’t sign with them but I got picked up by a kids/teen agency they referred me to and the positive feedback I got from the bookers gave me confidence to improve. After that it just felt like natural.

LCN: In life or in the industry, who are some of the people you looked up to?

ML: I look up to my mother; she epitomizes the caliber of woman I want to be…

LCN: Who introduced you to the urban modeling industry?

ML: My first urban gig I was booked by Marcus Blassingame for the cover of Urban Ink.

LCN: How did you feel taking off your clothes for the first time?

ML: I’ve always felt comfortable with whatever I’ve shot. My shoots and the people I’ve worked with have always been professional, so if I’m in a bikini or a fur jacket it doesn’t faze me, it’s work.

LCN: What type of ritual or routines do you follow to relax before shooting?

ML: I’m naturally a chill person, I don’t get nervous before shoots … I enjoy them.

LCN: How would you describe the image that comes across when people look at your photos?

ML: Well that would depend on the photo you are looking at. My modeling portfolio ranges from editorial, to beauty, to sexy glamour pictures so the emotion varies. I don’t take “flat” pictures though I will say that.

LCN: What would the average person say about you? ML: (Laughs) I’m crazy, fun, free-spirited, passionate… very passionate… whatever I’ve got going on I’m in it to win it!

LCN: What’s the worst stereotype that you’ve ever faced as a model?

ML: The worst stereotype I would say that you must be shallow and uneducated just because you’re not being introduced as a “college chick”. In all actuality people are just being ignorant and judgmental when they assume that about models.

LCN: What’s the greatest compliment that you’re received as a model?

ML: I know how to work the camera, and that I’m very versatile.

LCN: What keeps you motivated?

ML: My family is my motivation.

LCN: What type of modeling do you enjoy the most, glamour/high fashion or urban/exotic?

ML: I enjoy fashion and editorial more so because those types of shoots tend to have themes and concepts and you can be more versatile with the emotion your picture conveys.

LCN: As an urban model, you likely deal with stereotypes. Which would you say is the worst?

ML: That you’re a ho or a groupie. Or just because you know how to exude sexuality you must be sexing everybody; which is wrong. I think the problem people have with Urban models goes deeper than what you’re not wearing… because if I was bony and rocking lingerie I would not have to deal with the same stereotype. People need to learn how to embrace a curvy, “urban” woman being sensual.

LCN: What would you say has been the most difficult part of modeling in the industry?

ML: There are a lot of misguided girls that will do whatever for “exposure”. That doesn’t go on like that on the mainstream side of the modeling industry. In my opinion that’s really what prevents the urban modeling industry from becoming “mainstream” people wanting to lowball models, and girls claiming to be working models but doing it for free. Like obviously you are looking for attention, not a career or income! … I want respect.

LCN: Can you talk about some of your magazine features?

ML: Yes well so far I’ve done about eight magazines this year… The Urban Ink cover with Rick Ross I would say was a great catalyst for my career. Ross and Draya were great to work with and I’m proud of my ink. I’d say my feature in the seventh annual Smooth Magazine Live from Jamaica issue was the most enjoyable. I loved shooting in Jamaica. I also did an editorial shoot for a Golf Magazine that was really fun, I like golf and having the opportunity to remind people I am versatile.

LCN: How is it working with VXN Studios?

ML:  I love her work.

LCN: I see she has played a role in many of your photo shoots?

 ML: She’s awesome… We always have fun when we shoot. The fact that she’s a female is great as well because she’s going to see things that a man might miss.

LCN: You mentioned that you graced the cover of Urban Ink with Rick Ross (also shot by VXN Studio). How was that experience and what did you learn?

ML: Honestly it was a great experience overall… It was the first time I shot in lingerie in front of a huge team of people but I did what I was there to do. After that shoot I was really prepared to face whatever people might say because of my choice to start doing urban modeling, I was proud of my shoot. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6NtyyVwbPs

LCN: How many tattoos do you have; would you consider getting more?

ML: I have a sidepiece that is a bunch of stuff put together, and then 2 other smaller tattoos… I want to get a tattoo in memory of my grandfather, but then again if he was still here I know he would probably say “why you marking up your pretty skin with that rubbish” so I’m kind of torn.

LCN: Do you think some models limit their marketability by getting inked?

ML: Yes, I do.

LCN: What would you say has been the reception from artists at the shoots?

ML: I feel like the artists I have worked with and I have a mutual respect for each other. They know I’m chill, I like to goof around and have a good time working together, but I still like to keep it professional. If any of the people I’ve worked with see me out, we’re cool, I don’t feel like I’ve ever disappointed anyone when it comes to my work ethic, and I’m not stuck up.

LCN: I saw a twitvid with you and model Draya Michele from the shoot. She mentioned that the shoot was seven hours. Did you ever think that being a model would require this much work such as an actual 9 to 5? ML: Yes, I’ve done the shoots where it’s multiple days not just 9 to 5. When you’re working in the entertainment industry you’ve made the decision to put more hours into what you’re building than you would at a 9 to 5, because you’re building your own brand not working for an already established corporation.

LCN: How is your relationship with Draya since she’s now on the new season of Basketball Wives L.A.? ML: Draya is part of the TSD agency family, so I’m very proud of her accomplishments. She’s a cool chick; we’ve always had fun when we’ve worked together or gone to an event. I’m glad she could keep it together when those old crows hate on her on BBWLA.

LCN: Would you consider stepping into the world of reality TV soon?

ML: Yes television is definitely on the horizon.

LCN: What shows do you enjoy watching during your busy schedule?

ML: I have really been slacking on watching television lately, but Desperate Housewives and Chelsea Lately were my two favs. I love Jersey Shore and Basketball Wives as well…

LCN: What advantage do you have over any other model in the industry?

ML: I’m an immigrant … Which for me means I’m resilient and know how to move forward towards my goals even when I am completely removed from my comfort zone. The road to success is rarely comfortable so that helps.

LCN: What is your ultimate goal in the modeling world?

ML: To build a big enough brand to step into the world of television, production and Philanthropy.

LCN: Did you receive a formal education or attend college?

ML: Yes I studied at the University of Florida.

LCN: So you’re a Gator. I understand that you were finishing your degree in Philosophy last year. What made you step into that field?

ML: I originally planned on going to Law School.

LCN: How much experience have you gotten as far as working with and meeting people in that field? ML:  I meet people in that field but the role they play within my career is very different than what it would have been if my passion was still law.

LCN: Obviously, Philosophy is something that you put some thought into before pursuing it, but what made you decide to put modeling and entertainment on the list of career choices as well?

ML: Even though I have always been academically driven I am a very creative person; I have been that all my life. I’ve been singing since I was 3 years old in church. I’ve always been into the arts. College felt like something I was expected to do; but really not what was going to be furthering my passions.

LCN: How did you balance being a student-model that’s possibly always on the go at anytime?

ML: It’s damn near impossible. I had to step away from modeling to fully focus on school, and take a break from school to really push modeling. I feel like when you are a student, ideally you need to just wear that one and only hat. It’s hard to reach your full potential in both areas balancing both.

LCN: How do you balance being a duel threat with beautiful and educated?

ML: It’s not really something I try to be or a task, so I don’t really have to balance it. My mother raised me, put time into homeschooling me to ensure I was an intelligent person but also taught me to be confident but humble at the same time.

LCN: What's your vision for the next five years in general? What do you want to do?

ML: Definitely widen my fan base, expand into television production, not meaning to sound like every model out there. But I have a plan for the brand I’m building, I can’t tell everything I have in the works but trust me I will be a self-sufficient, business woman for the rest of my life.

LCN: What separates Danielle from Miss London?

ML: Danielle is who I have always been and will always be, it’s me in my sweats at the house, or at Disney World with my baby brother and sister … Miss London is still me just a little more of my feisty personality.

LCN: Is it hard for you to balance the two sides of your life?

ML: No it isn’t. I don’t do anything I don’t want to, that’s what makes both sides mesh well and remain separate at the same time. When I want to spend time with my family I do, when I need to be at a gig I’m there. I don’t know when you’re doing what you love it works.

LCN: What’s the sexiest thing about you besides your mind and that sexy British accent?

ML: I guess my all natural “bum bum” aka booty. People are always intrigued by it (laughs). From the front I really don’t look like I’ve got all that back there… but from the side TADOW!

LCN: I’m with you when you’re right. What is the best part of your body; the part that needs the most improvement? ML: Probably my bum, and I want my oblique to be more defined, I’ve got a trainer though so they’re almost there.

LCN: What do you consider your sexiest feature?

ML: My Eyes.

LCN: Are you single?

ML: I’m recently taken. It's still new and exciting … So I’m happy.

LCN: Fun is cool,... Let's go out sometime (wink). Tell me how do you like to be charmed?

ML: (Laughs) … Where you want to go? I like to be romanced at the mall…(laughs)…. Just kidding! I like the small things you know random sweet text messages, flowers, I like spontaneous things.

                                                                                               

LCN: You mentioned Disney earlier so let’s make that happen without the kids (laughs). That would be a magical moment. Can we make magic the first night?

ML: Nah… I might kiss you if we the moment and chemistry comes about but I’d never give it up when I’m just starting to get to know you.

LCN: That’s cool (winks & smiles). What’s one thing about yourself that everyone should know?

ML: I’m very compassionate, and loyal to the people I care about. I don’t care for people who try to hurt anyone I love, and I will protect, support, and go hard for my loved ones.

LCN: What advice would you give young models looking to step into this industry?

ML: The same way and amount of time you would research into what is required to be a successful doctor… The same applies to modeling. Don’t be thirsty to just be photographed. Be purposeful and focused with your choices within this industry

LCN: What future projects do you have lined up? ML: Well you know my work in Smooth Magazine just dropped. I have some events coming up. I’m also establishing a charity and launching my website and dropping a 2012 calendar.

LCN: You have a good layout of work. In conclusion do you have any shout outs?    

ML: Shout out to all my fans and followers, my agent Marcus Blassingame for helping me get started in this industry, shout out to my PR rep Jonell. Make sure you follow me @MissLondon2u and stay tuned for more!