Issue 3 Fall 2015/Winter 2016

FALL 2015/WINTER 2016

fAshion

fashion MEETS MUSIC FESTIVAL Bridal & WEDDING trends AUTUMN FASHIONS GET STYLED BY VANESSA RENEE & MORE

PHOTOGRAPHy Model Spotlight

NUBIAN GODS & GODDESSES EDITORIAL LEARN ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY GROUPS & MORE

meet JOnEIA PERNELL

SEE our CONTESTs WINNERS! PHOCUS POINT

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CONTENT

Fashion Meets Music Festival

KME fashions Read about KME Fashions.

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FALL trend: SUEDE

BRIDal TRENDS

Suede season is upon us!

Fall is a great time to be a bride.

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20 Southern wedding trends Learn about Southern Weddings trends.

Wardrobe stylist

24 Meet a great Hair Stylist

Meet Vanessa Renee!

Meet Megan Van Winkle

22 NUBIAN GODS & GODDESSES THE PIEDMONT TRIAD MODELING GROUP

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2015 PHOTO CONTEST WINNER

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2015 MODEL CONTEST WINNER

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DO I HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? PART 3 FITTING MODELING 101

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MEET JONEIA PERNELL

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ADS & SERVICES

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LAURA BENNETT

ANDREA HORNE

Laura Bennett is a fashion writer and the photographer/ owner of Amore. Photography & Design. She lives in Charleston, SC with her husband Nate and son Drew. Laura enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, the beach life, and staying active in her community.

Andrea Horne is a fashion writer and wardrobe stylist. Her work has been published in the US, Europe, and Australia.

She loves fashion and has attended over 40 runway shows including London Fashion Weekend, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week NYC & Miami, and Charleston Fashion Week. She is originally from Boston, worked in England for 6 years, and now resides in Charlotte, NC. Andrea is a faithful Boston Red Sox fan and tries to attend a game whenever she is back in town.

PHOCUS POINT CONTRIBUTORS Phocus Point Magazine is published Quarterly by Phocus Point.

Any reproduction of this publication is prohibited without the express written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Phocus Point does not accept responsibility for statements made by individuals, groups, or advertisers. The views expressed herein by the authors of the articles and advertisers may not necessarily reflect the views of Phocus Point.If not otherwise credited all photos were obtained from bigstockphoto. com. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to:

DANIEL VALVERDE

derek@derekpalmerphotography.com Phocus Point

Daniel Valverde is the owner of Green Valley Photography after his last name when translated from Spanish to English. He is of Costa Rican decent and went to live there after he graduated from college. Daniel’s photos have been published in over 50 magazines throughout the US, Europe, South Africa, and Australia. In his spare time he is a member of a local soccer league and plays as a mid-fielder.

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Š2016 Phocus Point All Rights Reserved

Now Located at 501 Elm Eugene Street Greensboro NC 27406 Suite 327 For appointments email DusktoDawnCosmetics@yahoo.com Be sure to shop www.DusktoDawnCosmetics.com Services Include:  Full face makeup application  Brow Waxing/Shaping  Brow Tinting  Individual Lashes  Makeup Lessons /Parties

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Fashion Meets Music Festival

Labor Day weekend 2015 marked the second annual Fashion Meets Music Festival held in Columbus, OH. Over the past several years, Columbus has exploded onto the scene and become a fashion Mecca in the heart of the Midwest. Housing one of the most prestigious fashion design schools, Columbus College of Art and Design, and with the rise of local bands like O.A.R. to the national spotlight, the city has gained great acclaim in both style and sound. What better way to celebrate homegrown talent than to throw a party?

The Fashion Meets Music Festival, inspired by others like Coachella in California, was held on September 5th and 6th. It featured three music stages presenting acts like Andy Grammar, Rachel Platten, Young the Giant, AWOLNATION, Ludacris, and the hometown sound of O.A.R. A fashion tent was also erected on the green space amidst the downtown skyline where designers like Betsy Judd, Cierra Lauren, Lydia Hopmann, and Celeste Malvar-Stewart showcased their unique couture.

Those attending the festival were glam from head to toe. Bright crop tops were paired with chic skater skirts. Rompers and maxi dresses in fabulous patterns were worn with strappy gladiator sandals and wedges in an array of colors. Though some chose a fedora to shade them from the last of the summer’s rays, others welcomed the sunshine and wore festive floral headbands, scarves, and braids in their hair.

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Article and Photos By April Eddleman

While the standard band t-shirts could be purchased in the merchant tents, there were also a number of vendors selling upscale garments. As I made my way between stages on the first afternoon of the festival, the crowd parted, and one clothing stand in particular caught my eye.

The Boutique Truck is a truly unique fashion concept.

Here, high quality clothing and accessories are housed within, what would appear to be, a food truck. Step up onto the set of wooden stairs that welcome you in, and you’ll find a super-sized closet on wheels. Bright, blue walls and a blonde, wooden floor make you feel as though you are in a Rodeo Drive boutique.

Handmade jewelry and handcrafted clothing from national, as well as local, designers are sold at very affordable prices. Owner Catherine Shadeed says that she came up with the concept after a visit to the West Coast where similar boutique trucks were displayed on the streets. She’d never seen anything like it and knew immediately that “mobile fashion” would totally click with Midwest fashionistas. Catherine and I aren’t the only ones to agree that this idea is genius- during the festival, hit-singer Rachel Platten also stopped by The Boutique Truck to make a purchase!

The Fashion Meets Music Festival may still be in its infancy, but it will continue to grow in size and stature, gaining more great musical acts, and featuring more fabulous fashion in the years to come!

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KME Fashions 2015 Fashion Show KME FASHIONS started as a passion for fashion. KME first started doing business selling clothes to friends and family, then eventually branched out to selling online.

By Katrina Spencer Photos by Derek Palmer

Model: Whitney Mi’kal

KME FASHIONS sponsored its first fashion show, “CLASSY, SEXY, COOL” on August 29, 2015 at the Palladium Event Center in Burlington, NC. The show featured local hair stylists; Christina Jones-Ayscue, Anya Yancey, Pebbles Daye and their models, as well as KME’s models for their clothing boutique. The fashion show had music provided by the Incredible DJ Polo. The Master of Ceremony was DJ Destroyer.

Awesome photography was provided by Derek Palmer, Tinmanjit Photography, Shots in Motion Photography, Blue Print Blaze Photography and videography by Bash Waliss of T.U.W.O Entertainment.

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Model: Nachelle Powell

Model: Jana Lee

Model: LaToya Murphy

Model: Jessica Harvey

Model: Nitasha Blackwell

Model: Audrey Shoffner

Model: Shannie Jeffries

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Model: Demi Crisp

Model: Jewel Williams

Model: Royal Paris

Model: Tamara Earborn

Model: Shanequa Allen

Model: Elisha Gabrial

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Hair Models from Hair Matters Beauty Salon of Hillsborough, NC Christina Jones-Ayscue-Stylist/Owner Hair Model: Vickie Golden

Hair Model: Antreonaa Nyeshaa

Hair Model: Kayla Brown

Hair Model: Kemira Venables

Hair Model: Sharmel Henderson

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Fall Trends:

By Jeanne Everett Photos by Savannah Lee E.

4 Ways to Wear Suede

Fall is headed our way, believe it or not. I know what you’re thinking: where did summer go?

Honestly, that is a great question because it seems like it was just June. Every fall season we see cute cozy fur vests, leather jackets and tall brown boots. But, why not switch up your wardrobe and throw in a suede dress or top and make it a staple! So easy to pair suede with any texture, print or color really! Think of it as a neutral and like a starting base where you can layer over it or under it and then also style it for work or for cocktails.

I styled my suede dress I just bought from a local Charleston Boutique called Two Cumberland on King Street and loved pairing it with fun chunky bracelets, a scarf, a jacket, booties, and even flats. Check out my looks below to see how to style it for a variety of lifestyles and work it into your own life!

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Blazer Style a suede dress or in this case, my suede dress with a cute blazer, chunky necklace, flats and a great work bag for the office. The suede dress falls perfectly just long enough to be appropriate but also fun enough to go to cocktails after work.

Accesories Paired simply with layered necklaces, bracelets and a bootie, my dress goes from easy dinner out with friends during the week after work. So transitional and comfy!

Plus, suede is so soft and easy to wear it feels like you are wearing pjs!

Kimono Easily tossed on (like a yummy caesar salad) with a

Scarf

great bag, earrings, simple necklace and a kimono

A great dress if you are traveling whether it is in the

(which is another summer trend coming into fall as

car or on an airplane. Throw on the suede dress with

well) and wah-la! This is a perfect Sunday running

a yummy wool scarf, great low booties and a high

around town outfit. A good pointed toe flat never

bun. First off, you will fly through airport security

hurts either (literally-so comfy!)

fast and easily since you don’t have tons of jewels to take off or layers plus boots that slide on and off are easiest when traveling plus look chic!

Faux suede, fringe and fur will be big again this fall season but are also pieces to think about to spice up your wardrobe. Think about adding them in doses, you don’t have to jump in the bandwagon right away.

Take a deep breath, take a step back and look through your sweaters, scarves, pants, leggings, blouses and see how you can pair it with items in your closet already. Buy key pieces like my faux suede dress, because it›s easily transitional, layered and lifestyle friendly. Something all of our closets need!

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Autumn:

The Perfect Time To Be A Bride

By Andrea Horne Photos by Daniel Valverde, Green Valley Photography

Bride: Jinna Kim

Cool breezes, bonfires, and falling leaves are all signs that autumn is here. This is the perfect time to say ‘I do’ and incorporate all of the season’s best into a wedding. There are several reasons why a fall wedding is ideal. Here are my top three reasons to have a wedding in autumn.

SEASONAL COLORS & TRADITIONS

Fall is full of rich colors that make a lasting impression and the foliage is one of the best free backdrops for wedding photos. The colors are unique and beautiful and make a picturesque scene for bridal portraits, first look photos, and family formal prints. You can take inspiration from the outdoor setting and coordinate your bouquet by adding purple hydrangeas, yellow lilies, and burgundy hued chrysanthemums to the traditional white flowers. It is great that they are all in season during this time and readily available at your local florist. Pumpkins and apples can serve a dual purpose; for table settings/décor and menu items at your wedding.

Add them as centerpieces or serve pumpkin cupcakes or mini apple pies as dessert. Cranberry stuffing can be the tasty side to any entrée you are offering. In addition, brides and grooms often have a signature drink 18

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during the cocktail hour. A perfect choice is a cinnamon and spice hot rum drink that is sure to be a hit. For guest favors, you can have s’mores wrapped in a ribbon to take home. It is inexpensive and something that you can easily make yourself. Best of all, it’s a favor that it is a thoughtful touch and will definitely be enjoyed later!

WEATHER Brides in the South prefer outdoor weddings due to the mild climate. The average North Carolina temperature for October is 72 degrees and for July it is 89 degrees. If you combine that summer heat with humidity and a high chance for thunderstorms, who would really feel like celebrating? You and your guests would be uncomfortable and not be able to enjoy themselves as they should. The nearly 20 degrees difference in temperature makes for an easy decision as to when to have your wedding. October and November make pleasant weather for afternoon ceremonies and an opportunity for the use of an outdoor fire pit or wood burning fireplace in the evening.

booked. They also do not offer any discounts during this time. So if you have a specific date in mind, you will be less likely to get it in the summer months unless you book two years in advance. In the fall, there are fewer brides which means more opportunities to secure your favorite venue, photographer, caterer, etc. Many venues have no brides after the first week of November. So this is the perfect time to ask for a small discount as this may be their last wedding of the year. A great weekend to keep in mind for a wedding is the second weekend of November.

The weather is still good and there is still enough time before Thanksgiving and December holidays/parties. Finally, when planning your honeymoon, the prices for flights and hotels are lower in the fall so more seats and rooms are available to book at a better price.

The Fall season is wonderful for so many reasons, so why not a Fall wedding be one of them!

AVAILABILITY & PRICE The summertime is considered high season for weddings which means your first choice vendors may already be

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Southern Wedding Trends at the Revolution Tour

By Laura Bennett Photos by Amore, Photography & Design

Love was certainly in the air at the 2nd Revolution Wedding Tour! We had the privilege of tagging along for the ride at this amazing event. From vintage cars to an acrobat, these venues had it all. It’s hard to pick and choose our 4 favorite trends from this southern modern bridal show… but here we go!

Mismatching Dresses We all know the tradition of your best friend, sister, cousin, etc. all standing next to you in the same dress.

Same length, same color, same style... same dress. 99% of the time your bridesmaids won’t have the same body type. Having different dresses not only look amazing, but also will make your bridesmaids feel amazing. We all have heard brides say “You can wear this dress again!”.

Most of us smile and agree, but we all know that dress will never see the light of day again. At the Revolution Tour, we saw an amazing bride with her perfectly mismatched bridesmaid dresses. Different length, different style, different color…different dress. It was pulled off so beautifully and I can guarantee those girls would happily don those dresses again for a night out on the town.

Florals This event had the most fabulous array of florals! Flower crowns, gorgeous table settings, a ball bouquet, they truly had it all. Flowers were dripping off everything at this event and I loved it! There are so many trends with flowers, just about anything you can think of can be done! The floral headpiece pictured, made by Bushel and Peck, added the absolute perfect touch for this bride. It was very earthy yet classy and beautiful, which completed her look nicely. The ball bouquet by Charleston Florist was so unique and so adorable. I am sure the brides-to-be were taking note of this! There are so many ways you can add florals to your wedding, the possibilities really are endless. Revolution had very unique and gorgeous ideas!

Pops of Color Now that I just finished telling you to mismatch, let’s color coordinate! Walking into the stunning Cedar Room, my eye went straight to the gorgeous display of Blanc de Bleu Sparkling Wine. Not only did it taste amazing (I had to try!), it acts as the perfect décor. Placing something visually appealing that is also functional is always a great idea. You can use pops of color in any form, flowers, jewelry, table setting, shoes, cake… anything! Most brides tend to shy away from bright colors for their wedding; pops of color is a great way to still be fun, without getting out of your comfort zone.

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Metallic Metallic was another hot trend we spotted at the tour.

The beautiful linens by Kate Ryan Linens (that could also be used as your “pop of color”) were stunning. They were fun but also classed up the traditional table setting.

Cakes by Kait had amazing cakes with a splash of metallic as well. These cakes almost looked TOO good to eat (but we did, and they were fabulous)! Cakes are also a great way to express your creative side, just about anything can be done.

If you’re ever in the area when one of the Revolution Tours takes place, you MUST attend. They will be in Charleston, Savannah, Atlanta, and New Orleans in 2016. You’ll meet some of the best vendors in the wedding business. You get to see their vision come to life and trust they can do the same with yours!

Revolution Wedding Tours presented by Scarlet Plan & Design

www.facebook.com/scarletplandesign http://revolutionweddingtours.com/

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Wardrobe Stylist

Vanessa Renee of Phoenix, Arizona

By Andrea Horne Photos courtesy of Vanessa Renee

to talk about all of the amazing events we have coming up and new designers to watch out for.

Have you done styling for any fashion editorials?

I have had the opportunity to style many editorials, but some of my favorites were featured in Vogue Italia, Zephyr Magazine, and Modern Luxury Scottsdale.

Vanessa Renee Gonzales has been a wardrobe stylist in Phoenix, Arizona for the past five years. Her wide range of experience includes personal client styling, runway show production, and fashion editorials. Here is my interview to learn more about her and her upcoming projects.

As a stylist, what are your favorite retail stores - locally and nationally?

My favorite stores to personally shop at are Zara, Top Shop, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom. I’m petite so Top Shop fits me really well, so I go nuts in there, but I really love one-ofa-kind unique boutiques as well. Anytime I can find a special vintage piece of clothing I get really excited! My favorite luxury stores are Prada, Chanel and Valentino. Everyone needs a little 22

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luxury in their life sometimes.

What is your role in Phoenix Fashion Week?

I am Phoenix Fashion Week’s lead stylist, which has been an amazing opportunity for me that I absolutely love. My partner Dynelle, who is the Style Director, and I organize all the style aspects of the runway shows.

We help make the designers’ vision come to life on the runways by helping them choose hair/make-up looks, models, and accessories. There are a lot of small details that go into creating the perfect runway show, and anything that has to do with clothing we take care of. I am also their TV spokesperson where I get the chance

What is your own personal style?

My own personal style is ultra feminine sleek and simplistic. I love neutrals and prints and you can most likely find me in a dress or skirt 90% of the year.

Do you have any media partners?

I have a monthly fashion segment on the show ‘Your Life A to Z’ on channel 3TV in Phoenix. I talk about new trends each season, how to stretch your dollars when clothing shopping, and dressing for your body type. Each segment is on something new and different and I usually decide based on suggestions from the audience; so it’s really fun for me!

love about styling is incorporating a client’s personal style into their new look.

Are there any celebrity stylists that you follow?

I follow a ton of celebrity stylists and bloggers, but one of my favorites is Monica Rose. I love the modern clothing she chooses. One of my favorite bloggers is Sazan Barzani, her taste in clothing is impeccable and she is very relatable.

You can learn more about Vanessa Renee at: Website: www.vanessareneestyle.com Instagram: @vanessareneestyle Twitter: vanessag6187

Who is your style icon?

My style icon would probably have to be Olivia Palermo. Her style is effortless and I am completely infatuated at how she pairs things. I also love the fact that she hardly shows skin, but still manages to be sexy and feminine.

What is the best advice you can give someone who is stuck in their ways and really needs a style update?

The best advice I can give someone who needs a style update is that looking put together is important. Whether it’s right or wrong, people judge your trustworthiness and competence by the way you dress. Also, I would tell them you don’t have to completely change your style or who you are to look put together. Part of what I

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Hairstylist/MUA Megan Van Winkle How long have you been a hair stylist/ MUA? What made you get started in this industry?

I have been in the beauty industry for about 4 years.

Previously, I was a Social Worker in Home Healthcare Case Management for about 7 years. I love working with people and excelled in the field, however the job got to me. I was put in extremely dangerous situations, regularly observed lives in devastation, and continually witnessed manipulation of the system by that less deserving/self I entitled. I became very depressed and cynical. My husband asked if I could do anything in the world, what would you do? I said, sobbing, “hair.” I worked evenings and weekends while attending Beauty School during the day. Graduated, apprenticed, worked in a salon downtown Columbus, and am now self-employed with my own studio. I have my loyal, amazing clientele visit my studio. I do freelance on location styling for photo shoots, travel with my Miss USA, Miss America, and NAM contestants, among weddings, special events, fashion shows, etc. I chose my clients; therefore I look forward to seeing every client, every day. I get to play with hair and makeup for a living!

Where are you located and what are are the most popular styles trending in your city?

I am located in Grandview by downtown Columbus Ohio. Studio Elements - Studio #6. 1637 Northwest Blvd. Columbus OH 43212. Columbus has a range of fashion trends and trend starters. I have cut many heads of long hair in to “Lobs” aka Long Bobs, so far this season.

Bright, rich color - ranging from sun kissed blondes and ginger reds, to vibrant tones only dreamed up using the color wheel and our imagination.

Do you have any NAHA or been published in any magazines?

My work has been seen on the stages of National Ballroom Competitions, Nation24

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Interview by Laura Bennett Photos by STUDIO RM-Rick Martinez, LLC

al Fitness/Physic Modeling Competitions such as The Arnold Classic, Miss US of A at Large, Miss Ohio USA, Miss Michigan USA, multiple Miss USA preliminary pageants, and will soon be displayed at Mrs. Ohio America and National American Miss/NAM. I originally tested the waters of beauty pageants through Drag Pageants last year when I traveled with Maria Garrison’s Drag Queen entourage for Miss US of A at Large. Best contouring secrets of the business!

I have the honor of pairing up with amazingly talented photographers such as Rick Martinez of StudioRM and John Johnson of GT6 Photography. Photo shoots and runways are probably closest to my heart.

My work has been on over 20 runways including Beauty Classic Expo, Condom Couture, CCAD Senior Fashion Show, and my very own Independent RAW runway show. I have styled for countless photo shoots ranging from professional, competitive headshots, personal wedding and boudoir, even to avante garde fetish photography - published in a handful of photography and fashion magazines. I get bored easily, and I have the luxury of creative freedom within my career.

What thus far has been your career highlight?

Not to sounds utterly cliché or sappy, but simply getting in to the industry has been the highlight of my life. I wanted to be “a hair doer” since I could talk. Growing up, my sister, pets, dad, and any other poor unexpected victim, would become my canvas. But it was always referenced as a dream or play. After high school, you go to college, get a degree, and get a grown up career. With the help of my adoring husband, I know life is too short to be stuck in a “job”; you only get one life you remember!

If you could do hair for any celebrity, who would it be and why?

If I could do any celebrity’s hair and makeup it would have to be Drew Barrymore. Drew (whom I hope to someday be on a first name basis) has been a huge icon in my life since E.T.! I adore her. I would sit in my bedroom watching Boys on the Side, Mad Love, Wishful Thinking, on repeat while attempting every style in the mirror (then going out to eat with my family while they attempted to not react to my latest self expression appearance).

Drew is such a confident, original, passionate woman. She has always done “her.” I can imagine Drew and myself squirting sangria out of our noses while I touch-up her roots and we crack up during our latest prank call to Adam Sandler.

Where do you get your inspiration from/ do you have any mentors?

I pull my inspiration from literally everywhere; nature, art, pop culture. My senses are on and scanning all of the time. I carry multiple pads of paper, note on my cell, or write on my hand every time i get an idea for a new style, color combo, or presentation. I could never imagine the ability to compose a song from melody to lyrics; but give me some hair or a face and the creations are limitless! I come from a large family of artists, fortunately on both sides. My Fraternal Grandfather, Elmer Koch, worked for Those Characters from Cleveland with American Greetings - being an original creator of Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, Poppils, and even featured his own face on a Mad Ball he designed. My maternal Grandmother, Millie Croxton Powell, was an amazingly talented water colorist, quilter, and chemistry teacher (value that more than ever now with color formulas and hair chemicals). My Mother was an Elementary School Art Teacher her entire career and my sister graduated from Detroit’s CCS and currently works within the art department of Rolex in NY. Artistic inspiration is in my blood - I have the ability to focus it in to showcase one›s individuality. How someone perceives him/herself affects every part of his/her life - it›s not easy to do on one›s own; that›s where I come in.

What is still on your bucket list to accomplish as a hairstylist?

My bucket list is stacks and stacks of post-its and scrap paper. I would have to say my number 1 yet to complete is Hair and Makeup Artist Director for a Major Motion Film. I watch at least 9 movies a week, and fantasize my work on every character. Drew and Spielberg, call me.

https://www.facebook.com/StudioElementsSalonSpa

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Phocus on Photography

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Nubian Gods & Goddesses Editorial by CyEra Bibbs-Taylor Photography by Earl Jules, Shannon Page, Richard Bryant Location: Fayetteville, NC ; Dogwood Festival Park

Photo by Earl Jules

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Model: Shalyce Milsaps MUA: Jacq’d Up Arts and Makeup Model: Ravon Derelle Johnson MUA: CyEra Bibbs-Taylor of Sparkle Divas MUA Photography: Shannon Page of Page’s Photography

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Model: Shalyce Milsaps MUA: Jacq’d Up Arts and Makeup Photographer: Earl Jules

Model: Shalyce Milsaps MUA: Jacq’d Up Arts and Makeup Photographer: Shannon Page of Page’s Photography

Model: Natalie Dawn MUA: CyEra Bibbs-Taylor/Sparkle Divas MUA Photogapher: Richard Bryant

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Model: Tory Ross MUA: CyEra Bibbs-Taylor of Sparkle Divas MUA Photographer: Earl Jules

Model: Tory Ross MUA: CyEra Bibbs-Taylor of Sparkle Divas MUA Photographer: Shannon Page of Page’s Photography 30

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Model: Brandon Kidd MUA: Jacq’d Up Arts and Makeup Photographer: Earl Jules

Model: LaToisha Dean Makeup: Self Photographer: Shannon Page of Page’s Photography

Models: William Bibbs & Gianna Singleton MUA: CyEra Bibbs-Taylor/Sparkle Divas MUA Photographer: Richard Bryant

Model: Zaire Brown MUA: Jacq’d Up Arts and Makeup Photographer: Shannon Page of Page’s Photography

Models: William Bibbs & Ki’Milya Bibbs MUA: CyEra Bibbs-Taylor of Sparkle Divas MUA Photographer: Shannon Page of Page’s Photography

Model: Gianna Singleton MUA: CyEra Bibbs-Taylor of Sparkle Divas MUA Photographer: Shannon Page of Page’s Photography

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The Piedmont Triad Modeling Group The Piedmont Triad Modeling Group was a group that was founded by Kevin Barker with Alpha and Omega images. Kevin quickly grew the admins knowing it could be bigger than he could handle. Kevin decided early on that the admins need to have key experiences. Gathering a group of photographers, models, hair and makeup artists and publishers, the administration of the group is well balanced. The group is led by Kevin Barker (Photographer), Colleen Michelle (HMUA), Derek Palmer (Publisher) and Keith Thomas (Model). Every admin is equal to each other, and votes are made on all major decisions.

Kevin asks that people do not put his name on everything that comes out of the group. He has always felt the group should reflect upon itself and not one person. The group is the focus, not one person or set of people.

The vision for the group was simple. Promote each other, help each other, and have fun. The group invites models, photographers, HMUA, etc., from beginners to experts, to hone their skills at various venues around the Triad Area. The group plans to change the format of the events and venues in the New Year based on past experiences.

The events that have been held are always low key and have a range of experienced professionals. A fashion shoot in a parking deck, Pinup on a farm, Steam Punk in a warehouse, and Sugar Skulls at the Woods of Terror. These events are all arranged by the administration.

An award will be given this year to an admin of the group. This award is to show the dedication and relentless work they have done for the group. They have supported the group from the beginning by venues, 32

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By Kevin Barker

providing amazing hair and makeup at events and being a wonderful selfless person. The Piedmont Triad Modeling Group Admin of the Year Award goes to Colleen. Kevin stated this was not only an award, there was a prize that went along with this award.

However, he would not disclose what he was giving as a prize.

A second award will be given this year to a model.

This award is to show the drive and success of one model that always brings grace, class, and professionalism to each shoot. Other models have described her as intensely focused, always in the model zone, and intimidating with her level of skill.

We are happy for Lacey Starr for being this years Piedmont Triad Modeling Group Model of the Year Award. Again, a prize will be issued with the award.

A third, and final award, will be given this year to a new model. This award is to show the growth of a new comer. She is always eager to shoot and fearless about what she is shooting. She received her first publication this year, along with a second including as featured spot in a magazine. The Piedmont Triad Modeling Group New Comer of the Year Award goes to Kelly Gwynn. Once again, a prize will be issued with the award.

Steampunk Shoot Location: Kroksh Properties Ohana Arts and Wellness Center Jamestown, NC Hosts: Charlie Kroksh & Kevin Barker Photography by Kevin Barker

Model: Colleen Michelle

Model: Lacey Starr

Model: Ale Horton

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Steampunk Shoot Location: Kroksh Properties Ohana Arts and Wellness Center Jamestown, NC Hosts: Charlie Kroksh & Kevin Barker Photography by Shabaka James Model: Lacey Starr

Models: Colleen Michelle & Ale Horton

Model: Lacey Starr

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Steampunk Shoot Location: Kroksh Properties Ohana Arts and Wellness Center Jamestown, NC Hosts: Charlie Kroksh & Kevin Barker Photography by Derek Palmer

Model: Ale Horton

Model: Lacey Starr Model: Colleen Michelle

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2015

Contest Winners

Earlier this year we ran a contest for Photographers and Models. We themes were high fashion and creativity. Our judges were esteemed photographer Katie Wright , www. goo.gl.com, and award winning artist Melody Waller,www.melodywaller.com.

Our winners will be awarded $50 each! Thank you all for submitting! Congratulations to Diana Avila our Model Contest winner and Jennifer Collins, our Photographer Contest winner!

Derek Palmer Publisher & Co-Owner Phocus Point Magazine

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2015 Photo Contest Winner Photographer: Jennifer Collins

Model: Chasedy This image was taken for boutique & designer Nora Jean Couture. Natural light was used along with a Sony A65 camera F/5.6, 1/320 s, ISO 100

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2015 Model Contest Winner Model: Diana Avila Photographer: Danta Simonsen Hair: Claudia Avila MUA: Erica Make Up Artist Fashion Designer: Faride Stylist: Roshana Nofret

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Model Phocus

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Do I Have What it Takes?

Part 3 Fitting Model 101

Article and Photos by Keith Foster

In this month’s installment on becoming a model, I want to talk about a genre of modeling not glamorous or the road to fame but one in which you can make a very nice living.

It’s referred to as “fit modeling” or “fitting model” is used interchangeably to refer to a model who works for a fashion designer as a human mannequin.

Fit models are used by designers and clothing manufacturers to help them both make sure their designs are sized correctly and often to give feedback on how the garment feels and hangs. This is an important part of the process of preparing designs for sale to the public. Designer’s have to make sure the sizes they are creating are accurate, they look good on a real person and are reasonably comfortable so they are looking for model’s with a measurements that fit the requirements for the market a garment is being reproduced for. These measurements usually go beyond bust, waist and hips to include shoulders, height, inseam etc.

In fact, many designers create a line of clothing with a specific look and body in mind. When it comes time to prepare the garments and begin to sew the test sizes for manufacture they are looking for a very specific build, style, look whatever you want to call it but they are looking for a “perfect” person to be their fitting model.

What this means to you is despite the many castings you may attend to apply for you will only be right for a few. With that said some fitting models establish relationships with designers and overtime become their “go to” model for their next line.

With fitting models there is another challenge you need to be prepared for. Once you are hired for a job your measurements CANNOT change! You can’t lose or gain weight. You can’t get more in shape and lose inches. You can’t get out of shape and gain inches. You will be expected to stay exactly the same until the job is finished. This takes a large amount of self-discipline and a regimen of diet and

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Clothing designed by Elenor Crystelle and Kim Hall

Clothing designed by Elenor Crystelle and Kim Hall

exercise that is very consistent. Successful fitting models keep this up for many years. Once you are known for a specific size if you can maintain it you may be called back year and after year.

So what does it pay? Good question, and it varies by designer, market and experience. On either coast an experienced fitting model will make $300 per hour. In smaller markets the rate may be $150 per hour.

So now you are thinking, “$300 per hour! I want that job.” Don’t be too fast to decide.

There are a few more things to know.

You will be on your feet for 8-10 hours at a time. You must be able to change in and out of clothing quickly, be respectful of the clothing, have great personal hygiene and be able to verbalize how garments feel, where they are restricting or uncomfortable and also know when to say nothing. Oh, and one more thing. Fitting models rarely have their photos published. In fact, you may rarely have your picture taken.

Clothing designed by Elenor Crystelle and Kim Hall

You won’t be famous if you choose fitting modeling as your career but if you are successful you will make a very nice living.

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model spotlight One to watch Model Joneia Pernell Joneia is an outgoing and ambitious model from Charlotte, North Carolina. She has walked the runways at the Gold Rush Fashion Show in Charlotte and at the Small Boutique Fashion Show in Atlanta.

She is inspired by Charlotte model Candice Rushing and New York model Chanel Iman. Jimmy Choo, Fendi, and Dolce & Gabbana are high fashion brands she would love to model for one day.

Joneia’s favorite part of modeling is meeting and networking with designers and models. She is open to and thankful for feedback that she has received to-date and feels the sky is the limit for success due to her hard work and determination. When she is not modeling, this five-foot-ten beauty enjoys shopping, cooking, and spending time with her son.

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By Andrea Horne Photos by Bernard/DP1

Joneia’s favorite part of modeling is meeting and networking with designers and models.

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See my work in the Phocus on Photography section of this issue!

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See my work in the Phocus on Photography section of this issue!

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Fashion, Models, & Photography

Capturing talent in front and behind the camera!

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