Meet the Executive Director of Kansas City Fashion Week!

Yep, that's right.  I am the Executive Director for Kansas City Fashion Week!  It's a lot of work, and I mean a lot, but I absolutely love being on this side of the fashion industry.  Don't get me wrong, I still love modeling, but with my job at KCFW, I can use my modeling and my event planning skills.

It's getting down to 3 months before the shows go on and I'm nervous, but so excited.  This is going to huge for Kansas City and will hopefully get our name out there and make sure people know that we have some great designers right here in the Midwest.

It's a lot of hard work to put on a production like this.  4 days of fashion shows is not an easy task, but I have an amazing committee that is helping me every step of the way with great ideas, and the same drive that I have to make these shows something people are going to talk about for a very long time.

In 2012, we will be having a Spring and a Fall Fashion Week.  The dates for fall are not set yet, but Spring will be held February 23rd- February 26th.  The venues for the fashion shows vary, as we're trying to get different areas of the city involved.  We have several designers that you may have heard about from right here in KC, and we have some designers that are coming from St. Louis, Nebraska, and Chicago.  I have a feeling it's just going to keep getting bigger and bigger every time.  We will be having a student showcase and design competition to give the design students a chance to have their own collection shown in a real fashion show setting.  It's a great opportunity for them, not only to have the experience, but we will also be having some of our featured designers judge their work and one student will win a cash scholarship to help invest in their dream of becoming a fashion designer.

Be sure to keep checking back to the blog for more details, as I'll be updating everyone on here, but in the mean time, check out our website at www.kcfashionweek.com and I hope to see everyone at one of our shows!

Woodland Animal Baby Shower

It's been several months since I threw a baby shower for my sister and her new little boy, but I've been so busy that I haven't even had time to write about it on here and let you all know how it went.


We had a great time and the party was beautiful thanks to Stanley Historic Event Space!  This is an amazing spot for any gathering and my sister was so happy with how everything turned out.


Here are some photos from the event: (Taken by my favorite photographer and friend, Layne Haley)

Creamcheese stuffed strawberries drizzled with chocolate:

 Espresso Macarones:

Chocolate covered strawberries:

Pinecone crackers:

Mini pigs in a blanket:

Goat Cheese Puffs:

Caprese salad skewers:

Tortilla Rollups:

Cake by Cakes and Other Bakes out of St. Louis:

Felt animals made by me:

All event planning and design by Tebela Event Design.

Event Planning: "Woodland Animal" baby shower planning is underway!

Nooo...not my baby shower!!  While several people..(ahem, mother AND mother-in-law, just to name a couple) would like for me to be pregnant, that's not happening in the near future. So...I'll leave that up to my sister ;)

I am having a blast planning her baby shower though!  I've decided to go with a woodland animal theme.  The theme goes perfectly with the space we've rented for the event.  With only about 3 weeks until the shower, I have a lot of work to do.  I'll keep you all updated on the progress and ultimately have event photos after the shower.  Here is a look at the invitations that I made :)

I know, I know...

I promised to start writing regularly again, and I haven't done it.  My one excuse...I was on vacation all of last week, soooo....


Now that I'm back, things are getting busier than ever.  I'm trying to plan a fabulous baby shower for my sister, a  fashion show at the beginning of August, a fashion show at the beginning of September, and I have some BIG news...  Models on a Mission LLC is officially in business!!!  Yep, that's right!  After only a month since I first had the idea, my dream has become a reality!  Check out the new website at :  www.wix.com/modelsonamissionllc/MOAM.  Not only will we be planning benefit fashion shows, we will also be providing many services for new and upcoming models, as well as setting up some beneficial workshops!


I can't wait for everything that's coming!  

Long time, no see...

Yes, it's been a long time since I've been able to write a blog post!  Feels like way too long!!  

There have been some exciting things happening though, such as my trip to Napa and San Francisco (I'll be sure to do a trip report about this), my first runway show that I've put on (Models on a Mission: Joplin, MO Benefit Fashion Show), and just trying to find time during the busy summer months to actually relax (not easy to do.) 

Not to worry, I'm back and ready to start blogging regularly again, so check back soon for my next adventure :)

I'm putting on a FASHION SHOW!!!

Yep, that's right!  Next Thursday, June 16th!!  With the help of my amazing committee, I've organized this fashion show in a little under 4 weeks!  I am very excited to be helping the people and animals of Joplin, MO.  


Please visit our event blog at www.joplin-modelsonamission.blogspot.com for more information!

Stay Tuned!!!

I'm in the works of planning a big benefit event in the KC area for those families and pets that have lost their homes in Joplin, MO!  Keep checking back to the blog for updates on the event and dates :)  I'll have more information soon!!!

A very sad day...

By now I'm sure you've all heard of the devastation that hit Joplin, MO yesterday afternoon.  I know a lot of bad weather has been sweeping across the United States within the last couple of months and it doesn't look like it's going to be getting any better.  I have family that lives in Alabama where the last big sweep of tornados hit.  Luckily they were all ok.   Now somewhere so close to home, Joplin, MO.  Only about 160 miles south of Kansas City.  I know a couple people from Joplin and I can only hope and pray that they are safe after such a horrific storm.


The massive tornado that hit Joplin yesterday tore a 6 mile path through the town, demolishing several homes and businesses.  The death count as of now is 89 and could continue to rise as search and rescue workers work very hard to help all those in need.

  


Below is a first account video posted on YouTube from someone that was taking shelter in a convenience store when the tornado hit.

It really makes you stop, think and appreciate all you have and everyone you have. 

And don't forget about all the pets that are scared, homeless, and looking for their families.  There are many groups that have been organized to help all lost and found pets in the Joplin area.  Please check out their Facebook page here:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Animals-Lost-Found-from-the-Joplin-Mo-tornado/185768248141000

Donations or offering to foster an animal until they can be reunited with their family would really help.  Go to the discussions tab on the Facebook page and see what you can do to help.

You can also help out the victims of this horrible storm by going to www.redcross.org.  

Thank you for your help!

One of those days...

Or better yet, it's been one of those weeks... 


I had a project to get out and of course things were thrown at me at the last minute that I wasn't expecting.  Now, if you know me at all, you would know that I'm pretty organized and don't like waiting until the last minute to get things done.  I hate procrastinating. But for some reason, that's the way things work in the architecture world...


Now that I finally got my project out the door (until more changes need to be made), I can take a breath.  At least it's almost Friday, right?


Surprisingly, I don't have any modeling stuff going on this weekend...which will be a nice break and give me plenty of time to get ready and pack for my trip to Napa and San Francisco next week!!!


Can't wait for this trip!!  I've been planning it for so long, and now it's finally almost here!  I love San Francisco, and it will be great visiting again :)  It's probably my favorite place I've visited in California, and I've been to LA and San Diego.


Next week is already filling up fast with things to do before we leave.  Benefit for Boobies: It's a Mammogram-o-rama is next Thursday and I'm so excited to be walking for my girl Jamie Santomasso for Baby Maracas!  Not to mention that Layne Haley has planned the show, so I just know it's gonna be fantastic!


I'm sure I'll post again before my trip, but be on the look out for a detailed trip report with photos when I return from foggy San Francisco ;)

Rock The Block Fashion Show

I had a fabulous weekend and it all started with the 2nd annual Rock the Block Fashion Show in downtown Kansas City's Power and Light District.  This was probably one of my favorite shows that I've done.  Here are some pics from Before the show and of the Runway!

 Getting ready for the show!

 Before the show with my girl, Louise!

 Getting ready to walk for Nikki Grant Boutique with my girls Quita and Louise

NGB girls!

 Walking for Zafar Boutique.

 Zafar

Walking for Lovebird boutique.

Such a great show.  I can't say enough wonderful things about it.  Thanks to Carlos Lee and Christian Michael, the show was a huge success and I can't wait for next years!

KC is not NYC or LA! Get over yourself!

I'm sure this has happened many times.  Someone in the Kansas City fashion industry thinks that their s*** doesn't stink, and has to go around bad mouthing other designers and all of the Kansas City fashion shows.


I have something to tell you:  If you don't like the way things are done here, then stop complaining about it and fix it.  You don't have to live here if you don't think the fashion scene is good enough for your work.  Putting everyone else down that calls KC home, just because you don't agree with their designs, is disgusting.  Why are people so malicious?  If you think you're too good for KC, then leave.  No one's stopping you.  Get over yourself!


When people start talking bad about other people in their own industry, they are only hurting themselves.  What do you think you are going to gain, by posting rude and inconsiderate comments on Facebook for everyone to see?  Do you think you're going to gain popularity in your own clothing line by bashing other designers?  I don't think so sir... Get over yourself!


I have met several amazing designers, right here in Kansas City, and I enjoy walking for them in local fashion shows.


Sometimes it is difficult for models because several fashion shows in KC are unpaid opportunities.  But I'm 28.  I'm not at the point in my life where I can pick up everything and move to NYC or LA to model.  I live in KC and I really do love the runway.  So, I volunteer my time to help out local designers and boutiques and do something that I absolutely love.  


Yes, I have participated in a couple fashion shows that were a little unorganized and sometimes unprofessional.  Now I know that those shows are not for me.  These shows may not have been what I would have done personally, or I didn't agree with the way it was set up.  One thing I would never do is speak poorly of the show itself or anyone involved with it.  It's rude.  Get over yourself!!  


There ARE some really great shows out there in KC that I have done, and they have fantastic designers.


Living in KC and having the opportunity to walk for a specific designer or  boutique, is very personal.  You often have the chance to work very closely with the designer, and maybe continue to walk for them in other shows.  I've even become great friends with some of the designers that I've walked for.  I'm quite 
sure that this doesn't happen a lot in NYC or LA.


So, I say...keep up the good work KC designers!  Let's show the haters out there what KC fashion really is!!

Happy Mother's Day!

While I am not a mother yet, I have a lot of respect for those that are.  It's very hard work and all moms out there deserve a day where they are recognized.  Being a mother is a full-time job, no matter what people say.   Thank you to all the mothers out there today.  Happy Mother's Day!!!


I've been very fortunate to have a fantastic mother, wonderful grandmother, and an amazing sister, whom I love very much!!  They are all mothers (obviously, I wouldn't be writing this entry without my grandmother and mother), and they have all done a great job raising children.


We may not always agree with our mothers, but they are the ones that will always be there for us, no matter what we do.  I know that I can always count on my mom to be there to support me and the decisions that I make.  She has always been there for me and I couldn't ask for a better mom.  I love you Mom!

My sister is an amazing mother.  I'm so proud of her and everything she has accomplished.  I only hope that when I begin to have children, that I can be as great of a mom as she is with my niece.  It definitely came naturally to her, and even though she is my little sister, I can say that I look up to her for being a great mother.  I love you Cara!

I have an incredible grandmother.  She's very strong and I look up to her a lot. She's had some difficult times in her life, but she always seems to get through everything and come out a stronger person in the end.  She has always been there for me. While she's been sick for almost 6 months now, I'm confident that with her strength and the help that my mother has given her, she will overcome these health obstacles.  I love you Granny!




I also have a wonderful mother-in-law.  She has always been there for me, even when Jeremy and I would not be getting along.  She has always treated me like her own daughter and I could not ask for a better mother-in-law.  I love you Jeanne!


I have several remarkable friends out there that are moms, many who manage to work full-time jobs as well.  I know that this is very difficult for some of them, and I have a lot of respect for them.  It can not be easy to not be able to stay home with their child every day, instead of going off to work.  I want you all to know that you are great mothers.  You do everything you can to give your child a good life.  I love you all!!


Happy Mother's Day!! 

Random Pet Peeves of the Day

Okay, I try to not let many little things bother me, but sometimes I just don't understand people and venting is a good way to get rid of some frustration.  So, while I haven't used my blog for this purpose yet, I figured there is a first time for everything, so why not start now ;) 


Random Pet Peeves of the Day:


1.  Women who put mascara (or any makeup for that matter) on while driving.  Seriously- you can't wait until you get into your work parking lot to put that mascara on.  Only takes about 10 seconds.  I know, I put it on every morning. There is no reason for you to endanger the lives of other people, because you think you have to put mascara on, on the highway.  Is someone really important going to see you between the time that you leave your house and pull into the work parking lot, that it matters if you don't have makeup on?  THE ANSWER IS ALWAYS NO!

2.  People who go to the gym to mingle.  Do you find it necessary to start up lengthy conversations,  when all I really want to do is finish my workout and get home.  I don't mind talking to people for a few minutes, but we all know those people who seem to go to the gym to socialize and not work out.  Sorry, guys, that's not me.

3.  Speaking of the gym, guys who wear sunglasses on their head while they workout, jeans to workout in, flip flops even.  Yes, I've seen all of these at my gym...I've even seen a high school kid in a long sleeved button up shirt and slacks, running on the treadmill.  Really???  Why do you feel the need to wear the sunglasses on your head?  Is it sunny in here?  How is working out in jeans comfortable?  What would you do if you dropped a weight on your bare foot?  Seriously people, come on!!!

Yes, that's Britney Spears...

4.  When I eat really well, and end up losing no weight or gaining weight, but when I eat a fried chimichanga for Cinco de Mayo, I actually lose a pound.  Explain to me how that works, cause it's not making any sense!


5.  Work...enough said.  I won't go into any details with my frustrations on this  subject ;)  Who doesn't get frustrated with their job at times?


6.  People who don't do anything and get rewarded, when you do all the work for them.  Just sayin...and better yet, people who get paid a lot of money for the work they don't do.  


7.  Why does it seem like lately most of the great weather days are days that I'm at work all day?  Why can't we have this weather on the weekends, when I'm not at work???  


8.  Poking on Facebook.  What is the point?  


9.  Friend requests on Facebook.  If you want to be my friend, then at least send me a message telling me how you know me.  I will not accept you if I or some of my close friends do not know you.  There are far too many creeps out there and I don't want random people knowing any of my information.


10.  Sales reps that live in Kansas City and instead of coming to update our library themselves, without asking us first, decide to just send all the books to our office, for us to put away ourselves.  I can't promise you that your stuff will get put in the correct place or even seen.  If you want us to use your product, then you probably should make an effort to make sure our library is up to date.  I understand, if our out of town reps need to send things every once and a while, or if there are a couple times when you were just here and you have to send us something that you didn't have yet...no problem, but when it's a constant thing, then we don't feel like we should have to update your binders for you.  Thank you.




Thanks for reading about all my frustrations of the day.  I already feel better ;)

Company Spotlight: Evil Pawn Jewelry by Faith Evangeline

EVIL PAWN JEWELRY BY FAITH EVANGELINE


Since I began modeling, I've had some great opportunities to model for some fantastic designers, but one of my absolute favorites is Evil Pawn Jewelry.  Faith Evangeline is an amazing jewelry designer, right here in Kansas City, Missouri.  Her jewelry line, Evil Pawn, is widely popular and has been worn by many celebrities.

Teisha Marie modeling Evil Pawn Jewelry.  Photography by: Layne Haley Photography

Faith takes jewelry making very seriously and it shows.  She loves what she does and every piece of jewelry is like a work of art.  


I have had the extreme pleasure of modeling for Evil Pawn several times now, and getting to know Faith.  She is extremely loyal, kind, and a blast to be around.  I'm very lucky to be a part of the Evil Pawn family!


Faith makes everything from rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets, belt buckles, hair accessories and more.  Not to mention that she has some amazing custom pieces that she's done for clients.  


What's not to love?

Teisha Marie modeling Evil Pawn Jewelry.  Photography by: Layne Haley Photography

Evil Pawn is a fantastic company that will only continue to grow.  Faith has a keen eye for design and a great business sense.  I'm very confident that she will continue to gain popularity, but no matter how popular Evil Pawn gets, Faith will always remain the same.  She's true to her work and her passion for jewelry will never die.


Check out Evil Pawn Jewelry at:  http://www.evilpawnjewelry.com/home

or: http://www.facebook.com/EvilPawnJewelry

And as Faith would say:  Adorn Yourself In Metal!

Evil Pawn Jewelry Models at Rock Culture Con, Kansas City, Missouri