Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaylan Simmons.
Hi Kaylan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Modeling has been a passion of mine since I could remember. I would always play dress up and put on fashion shows for my family. However, I never thought I could do it because I neither looked like the girls I seen on TV nor did I have that much encouragement to push me toward my dreams. My mom was one of my biggest motivators at the time, but when she had a mental breakdown, I lost all hope. As time went by I tried reliving my dream in high school by auditioning for a modeling agency. I made it past round 1, but unfortunately my fear of rejection got the best of me so I decided not to continue. Over time I worked on myself mentally and gave myself words of affirmation. When I got to college, there was a social organization called Ward Modeling Troop, Inc that I thought could be beneficial for me to learn different techniques of modeling and a great networking platform. I went through the process and made it into the organization.
From there on out, I have been putting in work nonstop to get myself out there as a model by going to casting calls, participating in runway shows, setting up photoshoots, etc… There have been moments where tragedies have tried getting the best of me, but I didn’t let it stop me. I even started my own business called Perfectly Imperfect Model Therapy where people of all ages, shapes, and sizes may come through my program and I help build their confidence, talk them through their trials and tribulations, and/or show them different techniques of modeling. My supporters are the best part of my whole journey. They have really helped in keeping me going until I reach the top. I might not be known by many now, but my hard work and dedication will soon be noticed by many and I will continue to speak it into existence.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. Like I stated before, my mom was my biggest motivator. She chased after her dream of wanting to be a singer, so of course she encouraged me to go after my dream. She did suffer from a mental breakdown which took effect on me, and in March 2019 she died. To lose the one person who would have understood me most is the worst pain I could have ever endured, but she is part of the reason I keep going.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a model. My favorite part of modeling would definitely be the photoshoots. Modeling is like an art, so to be able to look back at what you created is an inspiration for me. I have done runway, commercial and even dabbled in background acting. I want to be able to partake in it all, but if I had to only pick one, it would absolutely be print modeling. I am most proud of all the hard work I’ve put in. Most people think modeling is easy to do, but what people don’t see is what goes on behind the scenes to get to that point. I feel like what sets me apart from others would be my personality. I have a friendly demeanor and I’m also just an all-around fun person to be around. I feel as if that’s what keeps people wanting to continue working with me and referring me to others.
What’s next?
My goal is for modeling to be my career. I always tell people when they ask college was honestly my backup plan, and modeling was my Plan A. I also want my business to flourish and help plenty of others accomplish their dreams as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kaylansimmons.portfoliobox.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perf___imperf/
Image Credits
Vincent Hillard Jr Photography
