Finding the Right Acting Coach for You FACIALS: KEEPING SKIN HEALTHY & YOUNG
The 5 Secrets to Success in Film & TV
TALENT TALKS! BOBBY SYLVIA All Work, No Play? Doesn’t have to be!
A Touch of Sparkle and Majesty
Part I ELEGANT ART: KENT STETSON
TRADE SECRETS A Donahue Model & Talent Publication
THE CAST & CREW
PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Yemi Sekoni, MBA
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Julie Dawson
HAIR & MAKEUP Hayley Klaudt
CONTRIBUTOR Ron Millkie
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Alisha Newton
PHOTOGRAPHER Valencio
CONTRIBUTOR Olga Hawwa
STYLIST Sira D’Arpino
CONTRIBUTOR Cinzia Franco
CONTRIBUTOR Rachel DeCavage
TRADE SECRETS is a free monthly online magazine for models and the talent industry across New England.
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FROM THE EDITOR
Alright, this is a little scary! Month one: 2,600 views. Month two: over 11,000 views. Not too shabby for our second issue, huh? Anyway, welcome to our third issue, and I am happy to say that we’re still having a wild ride. First things first, you have to check out our “Talent Talks” segment. (If you’re just joining us, I’ll bring you up to speed.) In the week leading up to the launch of our first issue, we teased our readers with a word scramble to try figuring out what we were up to. The winner would be invited to participate in a photoshoot with us. Well, the lucky winner was Heidy Thomas from Providence, R.I., and she joined us on set to shoot some scenes with the very handsome Bobby Sylvia, (you’re welcome, ladies). She was a great sport and we had an amazing time, so take a look at the results and all the other photos we took of Bobby! Can someone say, “cold shower?” Olga Hawwa talks about taking great care of your face, and why it’s especially important for models and actors. For our “In the Green Room” segment, acting coach, actor and star from “Friday the 13th”, Ron Millkie, gives us tips on getting started in film & TV in NY, while our Editorial Director, Julie Dawson, outlines the steps on how to find the right acting coach. For our “Pursuits” segment, we take you into the world of Kent Stetson and his unique brand of handbags. They are one-of-a-kind, and frankly, so is he! I am the proud owner of two of his bags and they are truly great works of art. When I invited designer Rachel DeCavage to write an article for us, I expected something about fashion or recycling. To my surprise, her submission was about taking a vacation, even when you’re not! It’s well worth the read, and I loved the photos we shot to get the right images for the write up. Oh! We also added new segment called “A Wink From…” This will be for all our non-U.S.-based contributors. In this issue, we have Cinzia Antonelli from Italy, enlightening us on some of the hottest trends in accessories in Italy. As you can see, there’s a lot to unpack in here, so go on, knock yourself out, and as always…
Stay fabulous! Y 401.353.4940 | donahuemodels.com | Issue 3 Volume 1 2013 | Trade Secrets | 3
IN THE GREEN ROOM
The 5 Secrets of Success In T.V. & Film “fired up” and “determined,” it will just never happen for them. By Ron Millkie
A
re you longing to be discovered? Have you thought of chasing your dream of moving to New York to become the next big actor or actress? Can you picture yourself on the red carpet, posing for Paparazzi? How about visualizing the day you get your very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Aah… getting goose bumps yet? Well, hold up! There are many steps to take before any of these might possibly come true. So let’s start here, with my five trade secrets of success in T.V. and film:
1. Ambition and Desire. Yes, it’s
not just talent or looks, guys. There are thousands of talented and beautiful people who flock to New York every year to pursue their dream, but if these young folks are not
2. Persistence and Fortitude.
Many young models and actors do come to New York with ambition and determination, but go home after a few months of rejection. To be successful in any field you have to put in the time. Can you imagine a medical student quitting after her first year of medical school saying, “I didn’t know it was going to be this hard!” It certainly is hard to get work in T.V. and film in New York, and I’m not just talking about “background” or “extra” work. That may be a way to sustain yourself for a short period of time, but too many aspiring actors become just that and nothing more. They become “professional background players.” Don’t settle! Know that you are good enough to hold out for a real part on a film or T.V. show.
3. Talent. Of course, you have to
have talent, but then again, there are thousands of talented young actors who come to the Big Apple. However, that talent and the demons that sometimes accompany it,
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like depression and extreme disappointment from rejection, could cause them to give up their dream rather quickly. Listen guys, you have to have your act together. If you have a drug or drinking problem, a boyfriend or girlfriend who isn’t supportive, or if you don’t have enough money to sustain yourself for more than a month in the “Big City,” don’t waste your time. Here’s another tip; wait ‘till you arrive in New York before you spend a lot of money on a headshot.
4. Training. Yes, you might have
done some community theatre or starred in your college play, but that is not going to prepare you to compete with professionally trained actors who have a technique, know how to analyze a script, and know how to listen and react. Make sure you bring enough money to study with one of the many wonderful acting teachers that a city like New York has to offer. You may want to audit several teachers to see which one you “click” with before signing up. My personal opinion about an expensive “School of Theatre” or “Film and T.V. Academy,” is that they are not worth the thousands of
dollars you will pay them. Some of them charge over $40,000 for their threeyear agenda; instead, you could get the same training by studying a couple of days or nights a week and working “off-off Broadway,” or doing student films. You will learn by doing, and impress agents with your resume.
5. It’s Who You Know.
You will meet people along the way, but ultimately, become the best actor you can be. Start now in your hometown, but get your priorities in line first, guys. Be the best person you can be first.
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Model: Zoe Habershaw
Okay, so what if you don’t know anybody? Well, neither did Al Pacino! Not to drop a name, but yes, I knew the struggling young actor, Al Pacino, years before he was a household name. We worked several “pay the rent” jobs together back in the late 60s, including running all over New York City on foot for the Swift Messenger Service for $1.35 an hour! Al was fired up about acting and did any acting job that was offered him. He didn’t have any money (ditto me), and just met people along the way who directed him in various “off-off Broadway” shows. He auditioned for “the real” Actor’s Studio for seven years before he finally got in. One night he met film producer Francis Ford Coppola, who saw his work and cast him in, perhaps, one of Al’s most recognized roles as Michael Corleone in “The Godfather.” Almost every job I’ve ever had came as a result of me knowing somebody or working with that director when they were also just starting out. Such was my story in getting cast by director Sean Cunningham in the original “Friday the 13th.”
IN THE GREEN ROOM
How to Find the Right Acting Coach for You! coaches” may have read a few books on the various acting techniques and sound like they know what they are talking about, but that might just be the result of a little something called research, and it’s nothing you can’t do yourself. So, if you ask me, I’d say your journey to find your acting coach should begin with research!
By Julie Dawson
W
One of the many beauties of the Internet is that you can practically find any information on anybody you choose. Try typing the acting coach’s name into Google, search for him or her on LinkedIn, IMDB (Internet Movie Data Base), and other social media sites to see what comes up.
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Models: Jennifer Tashjian & Kelley Ortler
ould you ever pay a non-mechanic to fix a problem on your car? Of course not! Then why would an aspiring actor give up their hard-earned cash on acting lessons taught by “coaches” who may have never actually practiced the craft a day in their lives? Don’t agree? Try this quick exercise. Search online for ‘acting coaches’ in your local area. You might be surprised at how many results you get. So how can you determine the true professional from some self-proclaimed replica? How would you know if the lessons instructed by this person are relevant, accurate or current? My point is, you wouldn’t know - especially if you are new to acting and to the entertainment industry. Sure, these “acting
I’ve always been a huge fan of research. Call me a nerd, but the more investigating you conduct and learn about the industry overall, the better your chances are of having success in the business. However, before you start typing away into Google, you must first ask yourself, “What type of acting would I like to pursue?” In other words, can you imagine yourself on stage or in front of a camera? There’s a huge difference between acting for film and performing in front of a live audience, so you want to be sure you are very clear on that. Once you have a better idea, Google search theater companies and/or casting and talent agencies in your area. Take a good look at what classes they offer, and more importantly, who is teaching them.
What you want to look for online is a resume or a site that lists their acting experience. Find out what work he or she has done. Were they involved in film or theater? How long have they been in the business? Make a list of questions like this as you move forward with your search, and keep track of them in a notebook to make the process easier and organized. If anything like “scam alert” comes up while searching for your acting coach, that’s probably your most obvious red flag. Have you searched for his or her name on your local judiciary web site for a criminal record? I’m not saying this to scare you, but there are people in this business that prey on people who are new to the industry and are just trying to follow their dreams. Those jerks! So, what’s the next step? Once you have narrowed down your list of acting coaches in your area, pick up that phone and start making some calls. Ask to meet with them at their office to see if your personalities mesh. By meeting in person, you will be able to tell if you will be comfortable working with them.
Models: Kelley Ortler & Suzanne Budano
As you narrow down the list, avoid seeking out only the ones who are the least expensive. Remember, you want to be able to learn from someone based on the skills and experiences they can pass down to you. Just because someone may be cheap, doesn’t mean that he or she will be your best option as an acting coach and a mentor. Like any worthwhile business venture, there will be an initial investment involved, and if you are truly serious about this career path, you have to expect this. However, make your choices wisely. Hey, you never know, maybe one day we’ll see you on the big screen or on Broadway! 401.353.4940 | donahuemodels.com | Issue 3 Volume 1 2013 | Trade Secrets | 7
THE COSMETIC COUNTER
FACIALS: KEEPING SKIN HEALTHY & YOUNG previous damage, and help prevent new damage from occurring.
By Olga Hawwa
Y
our skin is the first thing people notice; it says a lot about your overall well-being and health. My job, as an esthetician, is to assist you in having the best-looking skin possible! When I ask people, “What is your number one image concern?” More often than not, they’ll say, “my skin.”
If you’ve never had a facial before, it’s about time you tried one! This therapeutic skin treatment can include, though it’s not limited to: massage, steam, peels, masks, toning, exfoliating, extractions, moisturizing, skin analysis, and deep cleansing.
To get the best possible results, a 60-minute facial is your best option. After cleansing, the skin is analyzed under a magnifying lamp and its condition is assessed - elasticity, lines, wrinkles, Whether it’s an acne issue, a few clogged pores, more lines and wrinkles than we broken capillarwould like, hyperpigmentation ies, tone, firmand sunspots, or just keeping the ness, sensitivity, skin looking good, having a facial and age spots. is the best-kept secret solution to Once the analysis your problem areas. Regular facials is complete, your and good home care can help skin’s condition you maintain healthy skin, repair and the issues
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you would like to address will determine the type of facial treatment you would receive. The next step is exfoliation. This could be an enzyme, lactic, or glycolic peel (in the strength that is right for your skin), or a manual scrub. The proper exfoliation will help remove the build up of dead surface skin cells, which result in
fewer lines, softer wrinkles, fading of hyperpigmentation, and decreased acne, all reasonable results that can be expected when combining salon facial exfoliation with the right home care. After exfoliation comes the facial massage - one of the best parts of the facial experience! Potential massage benefits may include: t *NQSPWFE GBDJBM TLJO BOE NVTDMF UPOF t 3FMBYBUJPO PG GBDJBM BOE FZF NVTDMFT t 3FMJFG GSPN UFOTJPO IFBEBDIFT BOE GBDJBM QBJO t "MMFWJBUJPO PG TUSFTT BOE BOYJFUZ t 0WFSBMM QIZTJDBM BOE NFOUBM SFMBYBUJPO Following the massage, the right mask for your skin type is applied. Masks can work to either calm or lighten the skin, in addition to hydrating and nourishing it with nutrients. The facial you acquire will all depend on the condition of your skin and what you hope to achieve. Lastly, sunscreen and moisturizer are applied and Voila! You are ready to show the world a rejuvenated and healthier-looking you!
Images provided by Olga Hawwa
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FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Work Hard, Play Hard! How To Make Every Day Feel Like a Vacation - When It’s Definitely Not. on time, sorry, because waking up with the sun and feeling well-rested is the best way to start the day. Train yourself to go to bed earlier so you can wake up without an alarm - it’s well worth it.
By Rachel DeCavage
F
Whether it’s a pint of raspberries when they’re not on sale or a new pair of shoes, treating yourself to something nice is vital to your happiness.
It’s mind over matter.
Even though I was back at work that week, I kept telling myself I was still on vacation and was only at work because it’s where I really wanted to be. Turns out, I was way more productive and a whole lot happier to plow through that inbox. The power of self-persuasion can be pretty impressive.
Wake up naturally.
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Model: Christina Babcock
inding myself stressed out, forever connected to technology and completely exhausted all the time, last summer I planned my first vacation in three years; a visit to Maine to catch up with friends. Everything pretty much fell apart within the first 24 hours, so I decided to just drive back home and get back to work. That’s when I realized, since vacations are often few and far between, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to start pretending I’m on vacation, pretty much, every day. Below are 10 easy ways I switch gears mentally, yet still stay on track at work.
Buy yourself something nice.
Bring lunch to work.
Model: Maura Tomaszewski
Model: Madison Humphreys
Only make something you would eat at the beach in your swimsuit. It should be incredibly delicious, but also healthy. I absolutely love mixed salad greens with sliced strawberries and fresh squeezed limejuice; it reminds me of being outside in my garden.
Treat your shower like a spa.
Are you one of those people with three shampoos, four face washes, five body scrubs, and whatever else you can fit in the shower? Well, you should be! Make every day a new spa-like experience. Throw in a super-soft robe and fluffy floor mat and you will love getting ready for work each day.
Eat breakfast outside.
Take 15 ‘vacation-minutes’ a day to do whatever you want.
Bare feet, hammock, vodka and lemonade; enough said. Model: Sayra Fernandes
I love feeling connected to nature and enjoy the bird songs in the morning, but that morning jog never really pans out. So, I decided to eat as many meals outside as possible. For year round benefit, get creative! Nothing says luxury like a roaring fire, (safely grounded in a fire pit, of course), a warm cup of tea, and a cozy blanket under the stars.
Fake a tan.
It occurred to me, when I was on “vacation” that home is my favorite place to be. Since I barely spend any time there as it is, I like to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. For me it translates to lush, live plants in every room, framed Mexican Folk Art on the walls, organic cotton bed sheets, and ambient lighting.
Model: Edna Panaggio
I love having a healthy glow, but not the skin cancer side effect. Use an aerosol or cream-based fake tanner every few days, and it will not only give you a healthy glow, but also hide your blemishes!
Make your home your favorite place to be.
Visit an Indie Art market.
Nothing says vacation like finding a unique handmade gift from a local, even if that local lives in your town! Feel good about supporting small businesses and artists instead of shopping at department stores. Fortunately, Etsy. com exists, so even in the winter when there’s nothing going on, you can shop for unique, one-of-a-kind products online.
So, next time you’re feeling completely overwhelmed, under-enthused and totally over your life, try one, two or all 10 of these tips and envision yourself in a far-away place. Vacation really is just a state of mind.
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TALENT TALKS
BOBBY SYLVIA
“Okay, here’s my problem with insurance companies,” he starts, as we see vignettes in quick succession of Bobby Sylvia walking in the snow, then up a hilly neighborhood road, and then sitting in a barber’s chair getting a shave, “sometimes they forget how it’s supposed to work.” In 30 seconds, the commercial for Liberty Insurance takes him from the streets of downtown Boston across the pond to Dublin, Ireland. That first commercial was shot in February 2012, and later that same year, he flew back to Ireland because the response to the ad was so popular, the company decided to create a campaign based on the character. Six commercials, print ads, and radio spots later, all of Ireland knew “the Liberty Insurance guy!” In May 2013, Sylvia flew to Ireland one more time when the campaign was nominated for, and won, the “Best Advertising Campaign Award” at the All Ireland Marketing Awards, the only insurance and financial services company to win a 2013 AIM award.
TS: “Congratulations on the award; that is phenomenal, and of course well deserved.” BS: “Thank you so much! The trip couldn’t have gone any better! The client was very happy, and the entire team was great to work with, ...and of course the award, holy moley! It’s amazing, (I really am legitimately famous in Ireland!). Market research shows that I’m recognized by 45 percent of the country, that’s more than the Irish rugby team!” Aside from all that glitz and glamour, however, the actor and model likes to think of himself as your regular everyday guy. TS: “Do you have a day job?” BS: “I’m an engineer and consultant.” He studied Electrical Engineering at the Florida Institute of Technology, graduating with the highest GPA in his class. However, acting has always been his first love. TS: “What has been your most memorable modeling or acting job so far?” BS: “Being the face of Liberty Insurance in Ireland and
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Ladies love the “Liberty ad� guy 401.353.4940 | donahuemodels.com | Issue 3 Volume 1 2013 | Trade Secrets | 13
He has a vast female following, here and abroad 14 | Trade Secrets | 2013 Volume 1, Issue 3| donahuemodels.com | 401.353.4940
Serenading the ladies, making them weak in the knees...
being flown to Dublin twice to shoot the commercials. I felt like I had ‘made it’ in some sort of way. Great feeling, after so many years of trying.” TS: “What’s one word you would use to describe yourself?” BS: “Understanding.” TS: “And how about your parents, what would they say?” BS: “Mom would say I’m ‘smart.’ Dad: ‘pain-in-theass.” Now that we know all his titles, what else does a smart, pain-in-the-ass engineer like to do when he is not modeling, acting or consulting? TS: “Do you play any musical instruments?” BS: “I am the lead singer in a Classic Rock cover band.” TS: “Oh? Do you sing karaoke too?” BS: “Yes!” TS: “What’s your favorite song to sing?” BS: “Probably “Turn the Page” by Bob Seger.” TS: “So, would you describe yourself as a better singer or dancer?”
BS: “Singer, for sure! But I ‘can move’ on stage, as they say.” We sure would love to see that! He has acted in many theater productions as well – musical theater to be exact. Sylvia started singing and acting in high school, when he was cast at age 14, in the musical, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” He played Schroeder. In his 20s, he decided to move to California to pursue his dream of making it big in Hollywood, but after finding himself lost in the masses, he quickly learned that it was much tougher than he anticipated, and ultimately moved back to Rhode Island to continue working as an engineering consultant, while modeling and acting part-time. TS: “Who’s your favorite actor?” BS: “Daniel Day-Lewis. Incredible variety of roles, so well done.” TS: “Are there any particular types of TV shows that you enjoy?” BS: “If my TV is on, it’s a news show or a documenta-
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Just your regular everyday guy
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ry. Once in a while, it could be a re-run from one of my favorite old sitcoms. I tend to like being educated, rather than entertained.” TS: “So, what’s your favorite TV show of all time then?” BS: “Probably Seinfeld. Just absolutely timeless, classic, funny stuff.” He has a growing female following, here and abroad, several of whom “want to marry the ‘Liberty ad guy,’” and many boyfriends and husbands are weary of hearing their lady loves gush about him. In spite of it all, Sylvia never takes himself too seriously. TS: “How would you describe your sense of style?” BS: “Oblivious. Wardrobe!” And we love that he’s a bit of a chocoholic. TS: “What’s your favorite dessert?” BS: “Chocolate anything.” Aha, that must mean he has a kick-ass workout regimen to burn off all those calories and stay so trim. TS: “What’s your favorite form of exercise?” BS: “Stretching.” That’s it? We’ll need to try that sometime!
Jewelry Provided By: Harliquinn Designs 401.617.2220 www.harliquinn-designs.com dara.raisner@yahoo.com Tuxedo Provided By: The Tux Shoppe 5600 Post Road East Greenwich, RI 02818 401.885.1889 www.thetuxshopperi.com thetuxshoppe@gmail.com Location Provided By: ROOTS Cultural Center 276 Westminster Street Providence, RI 02903 www.rootscafeprovidence.com 401.272.7422
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PURSUITS
ELEGANT ART By Yemi Sekoni Photo Credit: Daniel Gagnon Photography Stylist: Jonathan Joseph Peters
H
e worked at a women’s shoe store and spent more time than most, around bags and shoes. So what did he do? He studied them closely. “At one of the stores, we sold handbags made with prints of famous paintings on them. I had been making digital art, and figured out that I could sew the artwork into handbags as a way to frame and sell my art. I sold these first bags immediately and was inspired to make more of them.” And that’s how it all began for Kent Stetson, handbag designer and artist. If you see a Kent Stetson handbag once, then you are likely going to recognize it anywhere. Like a cult following, a Stetson handbag owner will religiously acknowledge another owner whenever they spot one. 18 | Trade Secrets | 2013 Volume 1, Issue 3| donahuemodels.com | 401.353.4940
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TS: “What is the over-arching inspiration behind your unique style of handbags?” KS: “I am inspired to make art. I just happen to have chosen to frame my art as a handbag.” TS: “So, tell us about the creative process when you are making a bag.” KS: “I try to work organically - an idea can start from materials or an image, and then one design will often inspire the next. In many cases, I can trace how the very first bags I made 10 years ago influenced the bags I am making now.” Ten years ago, Stetson said his first bags sold almost immediately, and the feeling was a mixture of pure inspiration and a cascade of creative ideas. The success of selling what he had made was an affirmation that he should keep going and see how far
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Models: Amy Beth & Yemi Sekoni
Art Clutch
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Models: Victoria Cuartas & Molly Curley
Vroom!
he could take this. Today, he is stronger than ever, and as he says, “No one is telling me to stop at this point.” Why should he have to? As far as he’s concerned, being successful and being inspired to create are one and the same. TS: “With all this momentum, do you have any fears?” KS: “My greatest fear is that I will not be able to find an audience; that no one will like what I make, and that I will not be able to sustain my creativity.” TS: “Really? We’re surprised to hear that…” KS: “I think people might be surprised to know the extent of the doubt and insecurity I have about my work and my business. If I go a stretch of a couple months where I’m not bringing in much money from my work, I end up looking at my life through the lens of feeling like a failure. When you have the audacity to do what you love, it can be hard to manage living between places of fantasy and reality.”
Model: Amy Beth
Chain Reaction
TS: “You make art as well. Do you sell those also?” KS: “I see no distinction between what I am making and art. Or,
more accurately, I don’t know exactly what art is, and so I’m not sure I can say that what I am making isn’t, in fact, art. This question would be synonymous with asking someone considered, primarily, a painter about the sculptures that they may also make. Chances are, if I have made it I am not opposed to selling it. However, I do market the bags more actively than my two-dimensional work.” Stetson does not design with a particular person in mind, and likes to think that his designs could appeal to anyone. From classically elegant and sleek, to fashion-forward and in-your-face, his bags embody a range of personalites and characters that can be viewed as unique to each work of art. “At the most basic level,” Stetson says, “I try to design for the spirit of adventure and sense of humor of the person carrying my bags.”
Models: Liza & Lulu Locks
To be continued...
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Greasy Spoon
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A WINK FROM...Italy
A Touch of Sparkle & Majesty Miu, Versache, and Christian Dior, show in their jewelery lines. The must-have color for this year? Pink! And all different shades of the color! By Cinzia Antonelli
F
While Byzantine art-inspired jewelry is luxurious, including captivating jewels, Renaissance age art-inspired jewelry lines are quite similar. Using rich colorful stones, Renaissance age-inspired jewelry can be
From the runways to shop windows in Italian villages, intricate necklaces, chokers, bracelets, and earrings lure onlookers’ attention. The summer collections of Italian jewelry consist of cascading loud chains, oversized rings and earrings, and theatrical multi-strand necklaces of colored pears. If you check out the current designs from Chanel, Le Sibille, and Dolce & Gabbana, you will notice that they are inspired by Byzantine art. Each piece is sumptuous and magnificent, yet almost solemn; there is no debating that the jewels are an alluring spectacle for your eyes. Another trend you will find today is the reproduction of Christian symbols in the form of artistic jewelry. For example, lighted circular pendants are crafted into designs like rose windows to replicate stained glass on the facades of Roman Gothic churches. Other classic Christian-inspired jewelry such as the cross and rosary have evolved from traditional necklaces, into earrings. The mixtures of metals, fine stones, resin and enamel (plastic and paint) create a vast array of colors as Miu
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made with either glass or crystal, and precious or non-precious metals. The latest fashion trends for the always fashion-forward Italian is the “sporty glam” look. Some of the top pieces today are the colored macramé bracelets from Italian designer Cruciani, and are worn by many Italian celebrities. As for my own personal style, I love wearing a lot of pearls and crosses; particularly selected pieces from Prada, Chanel, Blugirl, Sodini, Gemmarius, Byba Bijoux, Dolce &Gabbana. My motto: “Dare to be a woman.” Let’s wear jewelry that gives us a touch of sparkle and majesty.
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WHO’S WHO YEMI SEKONI, editor-in-chief, is the owner and director of Donahue Models & Talent - Rhode Island’s oldest model and talent agency. Her company books some of New England’s top professional models and talent to work with many corporate giants across the region, helping these companies convey critical marketing and advertising messages to their target audiences. With over 35 years of experience in various areas of the acting and modeling industry, including theater, TV, film, print and runway, Yemi also holds a Bachelor of Arts in education, a post-graduate diploma in marketing and an MBA. TRADE SECRETS magazine is a culminating outlet for all of her passions – education, performing, marketing and creative writing.
JULIE DAWSON, editorial director, is a native Rhode Islander and an alumna of the University of Rhode Island,
where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and public relations. Julie’s journey with Donahue Models and Talent started in 2009, which has enabled her to gain experience in every area of the industry. From runway to commercials, and print to promotions, she seizes every opportunity that comes her way. Julie describes herself as a tenacious and self-motivated young woman with a passion for entertaining people, especially when it comes to making them laugh.
ALISHA NEWTON, creative director, graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Arts in
communications. She currently works at Foxwoods Resort Casino as their Advertising Executive, and has been with Donahue Models & Talent since 2011.
Alisha has had the honor of working with, and learning from, not only some of the smartest people in the business, but also folks who know nothing of fashion or advertising but know a lot about life. Remaining very hands on, she prefers to roll up her sleeves and teach (or learn). You can lose vision in the forest, but in fact, she sees most clearly, when immersed in the environment. She encounters every challenge with a positive attitude and the tenacity to overcome it. But isn’t that what life is about? Facing challenges and conquering them each and every day, for the opportunity to savor the sweet success.
SIRA D’ARPINO, stylist, was born in Italy, bringing an international flair and elegance to her company City Chic Image
Consultants.
Sira has over 20 years of experience sewing and performing custom alterations. During her time at an upscale boutique in Providence, R.I., she added retail, merchandising and personal shopping to her range of experience. Sira helped many clients develop and enhance their personal style, using her love of fashion to help people look and feel their best. Her favorite quote: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression,” Oscar Wilde.
HAYLEY KLAUDT, hair & makeup, a Florida native, grew up in New England. In high school, she found her love,
(more like obsession), for makeup. After graduation, she packed up and headed to Boston, where she has resided for the past five years. No stranger to the cosmetic industry, she has trained with brands such as Lancôme, Laura Mercier, Too Faced and MAC Cosmetics. She has worked on location at many editorial photoshoots and worked recently on the makeup team for StyleWeek Northeast in Providence, Rhode Island. Now officially a model with Donahue Models, she is a girl of many talents and a force to reckon with!
VALENCIO, photographer, chooses to remain an enigma. 28 | Trade Secrets | 2013 Volume 1, Issue 3| donahuemodels.com | 401.353.4940
RACHEL DECAVAGE is the owner and chief designer of Sugarplum, an eco-friendly fashion & object design company. She also blogs about her workaholic lifestyle at SugarplumUSA.com. Sugar Plum by Rachel DeCavage www.RachelDeCavage.com 203.560.2097
RON MILLKIE is an accomplished actor who is best known for his role as Officer Dorf in Sean Cunningham’s
original “Friday the 13th.” Some of Ron’s other work can be seen in “Meridian,” “Satan’s Playground,” “Selected,” and now in post-production, “The Bone Garden.” Ron currently resides at New York City’s Manhattan Plaza. rmillkie@aol.com
OLGA HAWWA is licensed esthetician and makeup artist offering facials, face/body waxing, eyebrow design, makeup artistry, and body treatments for women and men. She is located 1227 Main Street, West Warwick. Hours are by appointment. Visit her website at www.makeupandimage.com to view her complete menu of services. Call 401.353.4656 or email olgabeauti@cox.net for more information and/or to book a service. ****For more beauty and skin care tips, “Like” Makeup & Image by Olga on Facebook****
CINZIA ANTONELLI resides with her husband Gian and their 12-year-old daughter, Enrica, in the small town of Cassino, Italy. Inheriting her creative and artistic flair from her father, a painter, and her grandfather, a novelist, she grew up with a love for fashion, and a passion for creating costume jewelry. When she is not busy with daughter or helping her husband with his business, she can be found designing and creating new lines of costume jewelry - inspired by the ancient royals of the world, primitive prints and nature. Through her craft, her goal is to express her unique personality, as she believes that creating an object for the body is also a universal form of communication and language.
401.353.4940 | donahuemodels.com | Issue 3 Volume 1 2013 | Trade Secrets | 29
“He’s big in Irelend. Seriously!”