This month we delve into the life and personality of Stephanie Grieve. Steph is not only a Tyne Tees Model but also one of our new model bookers at TTM HQ. After fulfilling her dreams by travelling the world for a number of years, Steph has recently retracted back to her life in the North East. And she is about to share with us her secrets…
What do you enjoy most about being a model?
I really enjoy seeing how far I can recreate myself. Each job requires me to play a different character, style my hair differently or wear a different outfit – which sometimes is far beyond who I actually am. It’s really exciting!
Being able to share an experience with a client or a team of creatives lets me jump into their mind for a day and try and recreate their thoughts for them. Hearing feedback from the client is always a lovely feeling, knowing you helped them create their vision.
What is your career highlight to date?
Every job I work on is a highlight. Although, I always look forward most to working alongside my partner – Richard. I loved shooting a wedding piece for Belle Bridal together! I wouldn’t really class it as work, it’s very easy to pretend to be a bride with my favourite person. He is the highlight of everything I do… Not just my career.
Who have you worked with so far and what were you helping them to achieve?
I have worked with a number of fantastic brands and clients over the years. Although a few of my favourites would be Barbour, Sol stock, Study 34 and the Northumbria University Fashion Shows. I always know exactly what they are looking for with the presentations and photoshoots etc. They are very distinctive brands or people so it’s easy to blend into their work and help them produce something fantastic.
What would your dream job be?
My dream job would be to work alongside Viktor & Rolf in one of their fashion shows. I think they are so innovating and their work is beautiful!
What advice would you give to an aspiring model wanting to start working in the modelling industry?
I would say always be yourself. It’s a very cliché answer but it’s so true! In this industry a lot of people always try to be ”the next big thing” and to get there it’s usually through imitation. Being the odd one out is usually a good thing in modelling, people like to see different- It’s exciting and fresh! As long as you always work hard and work fluently with people, then you can go a long way.
Who is your inspiration for being in this industry?
When I was younger I was interested in fashion illustration. This is what I pursued in college. I would always stare at these paintings by David Downton of models and fashionistas and just be so amazed by them. Vivienne Westwood is also a huge idol of mine and I think being interested in these people really drew me into the industry a lot more.
Have you been on any bookings where you felt the team worked particularly well together? How did it feel – tell us about it.
I always think the teams for the Northumbria Fashion Shows work well together. The agency and the University always take time hand picking the right models for each designer. When you work alongside your designated designer for a few days, you really form a bond and help showcase their work on the catwalk exactly how they would’ve imagined it.
How do you prepare for a booking? What do you make sure you know before you arrive on a shoot?
I always like to research the client who books me. Or if it is a client who I have worked with before I like to read over the brief a few times to see what new ideas they have in store. And then obviously the clear basics! Wash my hair, file my nails, and ensure my skin is clear as can be.
All of that is the easy part… Every girl loves a good pamper!
