Taylan Kelly, a former model, was asked what sparked his interest in modeling when he was interviewed.

“I’ve always had a love for fashion,” Kelly said. “I actually went to school for fashion design as well. So, fashion has always been a big part of my life.”

Kelly shared how his passion for fashion led him to model for around three years. Kelly now coaches other models and is excited to see his students show off what they have learned. Modeling doesn’t come easily, so models must push themselves beyond their limits to become successful.

Aurora Einwiller is another aspiring young model, eager to continue her lifelong dream.

Aurora Einwiller said, “I’ve been really interested in modeling for a really long time, ever since I was younger…And then, just last year, in December, so almost a full year of modeling, I started modeling through Corella & Co…Then I graduated in August, and now we’re here.”

Einwiller said how she has been modeling for the modeling development company Corella & Co., a program that focuses on developing and educating aspiring models. Now that Einwiller has graduated from the program, she is excited for the opportunities to come.

“I’m super excited! I love the runway!” Einwiller said. “Runway is definitely my favorite part of modeling. I get really scared in front of the camera, so commercial isn’t my forte, but I love the runway.”

Although Einwiller is camera-shy, she still manages to step out of her comfort zone to fulfill her longtime dream of becoming a fashion model.

Whether they have been in the industry for 3 years or are just a beginner, all models have to prepare themselves physically and mentally. Not only do the models want what's best for themselves, but so do the designers who seek models to design.

Founder Rebecca Saint Flower of the Phoenix-based brand Melode discusses her expectations of being a designer.

Saint Flower said that her brand will allow women to explore their aesthetic along with their energetic lifestyle, catering to socially active, ambitious, and refined women. Saint Flower used three words to best describe her brand: elegant, bold, and classic.

“I look for models with strong characters,” Saint Flower said. “They have to approach whatever they're doing, whether it's casting or a photo shoot, with that kind of headstrong quality that I look for that is part of my customer, my woman.”

Saint Flower requires that her models need to exhibit confidence and self-expression, bringing a strong sense that represents themselves.

“I would tell them to make sure that whatever they’re doing,” said Saint Flower. “That tenacity, that ambition, has always been to be present in everything you do.”

Saint Flower advises models to carry themselves with tenacity and motivation, always putting their best foot forward.