Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika M.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The journey of More Than Modeling started 15 years ago and had been formulated from experiences spanning several continents and over 30 countries! I am the owner, founder, and teacher of More Than Modeling and I love teaching kids essential life skills and the realities of the tough business of modeling!
Originally from England, I left a high school Science teaching position after completing my Master’s degree in Education, to pursue modeling. Through the art of modeling I traveled the world, and upon gaining my USA green card settled in Scottsdale, AZ to open up More Than Modeling!
Years of international experience as a model, and seeing that industry through an educators eyes, resulted in the formation of camps, workshops, and classes where kids think they are learning about modeling – but parents know they are learning so much more than that!
My heart and passion lie in equipping children with skills they can use no matter where life may take them and uses the subjects of modeling and fashion to transfer and communicate these skills. Our camps are educational yet fun, and I also teach private modeling classes/runway coaching and etiquette.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I think all business can give you numerous examples of how tough their paths have been, and I am certainly no exception. First of all, modeling is not as easy as people think it is – it is a very tough and competitive business, and the green card process into the United States is a difficult one – both emotionally and financially.
Start to finish I had a 10 year long process to gain my permanent residency here, and then once the idea of More Than Modeling camps formed in my mind I had issues figuring out how to run a business that brings me into contact with children, how owning a business and the tax system works in another country and how yeah, I had to learn how to drive on the right side of the road! Haha.
More Than Modeling – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We are truly one of a kind and the only life skills/modeling camp in the Phoenix valley!
What sets us apart is my high level of Education, extensive global experience as a model and that I run my business on honesty and integrity.
I do not embellish the industry to children, I give them a realistic sense of the modeling world, and I give truthful and impartial advice to parents in the industry too. Our specialty is life skills and modeling.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me is happiness and experiences. I am not materialistic and feel authenticity, integrity, and your character define success more than money for example. These are the types of lessons I teach in my camps.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4425 N Granite Reef Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- Website: www.MoreThanModeling.com
- Phone: 480-442-9833
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanmodeling/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/More-Than-Modeling-1493539300676388/
Image Credit:
@ashley_mariahb
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