We had the opportunity to sit down with one of the leading promo models in Chicago to gain insight into what it’s like to have a promotional modeling career.
It’s not hard to find someone who claims to have promotional modeling experience, but there are very few people who make a living as a promotional model. This elite class of full time promo models are sought after by the top companies in the country and frequently flown in to work the industry’s top events.
If you’re looking to take your modeling career to the next level, these are the people you need to learn from. Inna is one of Chicago’s top promotional models, and she knows what it takes to get hired by the biggest names in the industry.
How did you get your start as a promo model?
My first modeling agent in New Orleans thought that my personality and background would be perfect for promotion modeling. After I worked my first show and really had a lot of fun as well as generate a lot of traffic to an all male quiet booth I see what she meant. I got great reviews by the client, so my agent continued sending me to all the big shows 🙂
Do you have any advice for promo models that are just starting out in the industry and are trying to book their first gig?
My advice is to get a nice portfolio together, don’t over photo shop your photos because once you arrive at the event you still want to look like your photos 😉 Be outgoing but also professional. You can’t be shy as a promo model, be your best, confident self.
How about for models who have been in the industry for a while and are trying to take their career to the next level?
Don’t be lazy, take pride in your appearance and continue to be there for the client. There are plenty of shows where you just stand around looking pretty but you should still be proactive and give 100%, make your presence worth while.
Where do you see your career in 5 years?
I hope to continue working the major shows and be remembered as a favorite model 🙂
What do you always bring with you when you’re working an event?
I always bring comfy heels( those do exist check out Cole Haan), flats for breaks, makeup for touchups, a bottle of water and lunch.
Walk us through a typical day as a promo model.
I arrive about 10-15 minutes before the event, contact the client, meet them at the entrance and as we walk to the booth chat about their company and my expectations. I then spend more time learning the product, put on my smile and begin my work. I stay until my contract time if they do ask me to stay longer I ask for the client to contact the agency directly.
Are there any beauty products you can’t live without?
I believe as a model you have to go all out! I do full makeup from foundation to lip gloss, hair is always down and styled. I can’t live without mascara, concealer and lipstick.
What’s the biggest difference you’ve noticed between the promo model industry and the print industry?
In the promo industry you can’t just use your looks you also have to use your personality and intellect to be successful. You have to be a well rounded model and have the total package.
Is there a client you’ve always dreamed of working for?
I loved working for PEZ the candy company, those type of clients are my favorite. It would be fun working for a celebrity client.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in you modeling career?
Its difficult to approach total strangers especially when some of the time you are wearing a revealing outfit, but I always think that it’s my job…. just gotta do it! Once I start smiling, talking and don’t stop its gets much easier.
How do you deal with cravings and stay motivated to work out?
I tend to eat healthy, raw diet. I don’t eat anything out of a box, can or a bag. If it is not grown naturally I don’t eat it. I don’t really go to the gym, instead I am constantly active. I am also a freelance photographer so I am always running around with my heavy photography equipment 🙂
What’s the highlight of you career so far?
I enjoy hearing the compliments at the end of the show and one client even gave me a tip because in his words I was the best model he had at his booth in 10 years 🙂 I also got to meet and hold the grumpy cat!!! Those two were the highlights of my promo modeling career.
What would you say to a young model that has recently experienced a setback in their career?
I would say keep working on your confidence. If you are confident you radiate a different kind of beauty and keep working hard at being the best you can be. Every show is different and every job is unique there will be some setbacks but you can always come back and be successful!
What’s the strangest gig you’ve ever worked?
I worked for a client where I had to wear tiny white shorts, heels and a skimpy top surrounded by everyone in suits. I thought it was the strangest choice of outfit but that’s what he wanted so I made it work 🙂
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received from someone regarding your modeling career?
Take pride in your appearance and be yourself. Looks will get you noticed but your personality will make you unforgettable.
