Ms Curvaceous UK 2015 Grand Finale

#curvemodel
What a night! The vibe was buzzing and so were all the models, eager to get out there and flaunt their curves on the runway.

We had a long day ahead of us, filled with rehearsals with the legendary Reuben P. Joseph, hair & make up with the MCUK Glam Squad and costume changes provided by the awesome sponsors; +Simply Be , Rosie Red Corsetry, The House of Dynasty Viviana Collection, Eldimaa Fashion and many others.

You could feel the nerves in the room but none of those nerves made it to the catwalk. The girls walked with poise, confidence and attitude!

Reuben is a brilliant choreographer; he oozes style and confidence and has a walk that all the girls envied. Over the last few months he whipped each of us into shape, he was tough & strict but his methods worked and he transformed each of the girls from Bedroom Divas to Catwalk Models in such a short space of time. Without his knowledge, expertise & intricately precise choreography this show wouldn't have been possible.

Behind the scenes the MCUK Family were hard at work preparing & maintaining calm through a sea of chaos. I'd like to take this time to thank every single one of the family & stylists for their hard work in the lead up to & on the night; you made this all possible and your efforts are appreciated. Theo, Melyssa, Valerie, Leon & everyone else; we thank you, you guys rock!!

MUA extraordinaire; Lien Vy brought her A- Team to make up the MCUK Glam Squad of talented MUA's, Hairstylists & Stylists enlisted to make our girlies look fabulous! Thank you to each of you for sharing your talents with us & making us look gorgeous!  If you are looking for a stylist then make sure you contact Lien Vy of Seventa Image, she will hook you up!!

The event was covered by a whole host of digital media excellence; but here are some notable mentions; Carlo & Francine of Doller Crem'e, Duchess, XOCubic, Wolf Media, Dan K Photography, Petros Gilazgi, Josh Daniels Pictures.

The venue was bubbling with excitement as the show began... 

It was such an honour to share the stage with all of the finalists their pictures do not do them justice; they are by far more alluring in person and such big kind hearted women too. Every single girl was simply beautiful and poised to perfection. Any one of them could have stolen the crown. All my fellow Ambassadors looked sensational as always and we all thoroughly enjoyed strutting in our gorgeous gowns down the catwalk.  The previous contestants also took the stage, all us newbies watched in awe as the pro's sashayed down the runway.

The performances by UK based artists Che Lingo & Asia Love were awesome.

The panel of amazing judges; including; Miss British Beauty Curve; Emily Blake, CEO of SLiNK Magazine; Rivkie Baum, CEO of Evolve Magazine; Rianne Ward, Stunning Model; Jada Sezer & gorgeous & inspiring Model & presenter; Sabine Gruchet had their work cut out for them in choosing one of these lovely ladies...

As the top 5 finalists were announced; (Hannah, Netsai, Serena, Pippa & Cerise) we all waited eagerly in the wings to hear the final result...

Top 3; Serena, Netsai & Cerise

It was anybodys' crown all of these ladies deserved it..

Finally...The wait was over and Cerise was crowned Ms Curvaceous UK 2015.  Her aunt ran on the stage and jumped on her in excitement, knocking poor Cerise to the floor (as if she wasn't bowled over enough!)  She has a huge year ahead of her with many opportunities lined up. Make sure you watch this space for an interview with her once the news has sunk in!

The night was a huge success and I cannot wait for the next contest...Make sure you register your interest now for Ms Curvaceous UK 2016 via the website.

2015 is gonna be a busy year for us Ambassadors, many things in the pipeline and I cannot wait to work with this group of intelligent, beautiful & inspiring young ladies.

If you missed the event don't worry, there's always another party...just don't be foolish enough to miss another!!

Did you attend? Do you have any pictures to share??

You can see a selection of my photos here

Calling all Size 12+ Curvy Ladies....

#curvemodel
Ms Curvaceous UK​ have opened the registration for #MCUK2016.
 
Are you a Curvy female?  Size 12+?   Have a keen eye for fashion? Want to inspire women to embrace their curves?
 
If you think you have what it takes to be crowned Ms Curvaceous UK 2016, contact me for more information :)
 
Or register your interest here...

http://www.mscurvaceousuk.com/model-registration-1/

I'm sure you have a tonne of questions, so please feel free to contact me :)

Check out my VLOG from the Audition day right here >>>>


Ms Curvaceous UK - Ambassadors Photo Shoot with Petros Gilazgi

#curvemodel
Here's a few candid photos, selfies & behind the scenes pics of our photo shoot on 19/01/2015

Photographer: Petros Gilazgi 
MUA & Hair: Verona Miller & Kirsty Huntley & All the girls individually.
Official photos will be released at a later date.

 Find out what the ladies thought of Petros...

Kat says; "Petros is an extremely professional & approachable photographer, he made us all feel comfortable & knew how to make us look amazing.  His vision clearly works as the images are awesome, plus he is a lovely guy, love him!!"

Aicha says; "Petros was really friendly & took time to make sure we had the perfect pose.  He gave excellent feedback.  I really likes his aura!"

Claire says; "Petros was great, gave good direction, was patient and knew how to position us to get the best picture"

Sian says; "Petros was very professional whilst making you feel comfortable at the same time. Fun to work with, friendly & uber talented."

Daniella says;" Petros made me feel at ease, gave good direction and has a calm manner about himself.  Great photographer and a pleasure to work with."




Ms Curvaceous UK 2015; Interviews with 4 of the finalists

#MCUK
So I got the chance to catch up with the four lucky ladies from my audition group who made it through to the Ms Curvaceous UK 2015 finals.  Find out all about their journeys here...

 Introducing; 
Pippa, Serena, Laurie & Anastasia
(Top left to bottom right)

1)      Why did you apply for MCUK?

Pippa: I originally entered MCUK in 2013 to boost my confidence as I had a few personal demons and wanted to change the way I felt about myself. I was unsure whether to attend the 2014 audition even though I had already entered online. On the morning of the audition I was still questioning my decision and then something hit me and I rushed around getting ready!

Serena: I have always been passionate about helping people and being able to inspire others. As part of being a Holistic Therapist it's my profession to make people feel good from the inside out. When searching online for Plus Size opportunities I came across Miss Curvaceous UK. I did not have a clue what it was but had a look and thought it sounded too good to be true. I applied thinking I would not hear back but I was wrong. The reason I applied was my main goal is to promote body confidence to all; especially the younger generation of today. It is so sad to see Women, Girls and even Men of today having a low self-esteem because of the Media and how it portrays us. I am determined to change this especially with encouraging Natural Beauty, Body Confidence and Positive Self Esteem.

Anastasia: I first applied for MCUK when I had just turned 17 and I wasn’t old enough to go to the over 18's venue. However, this didn't stop me! I went to the audition and I was the first one there. I was so nervous; I couldn't know how to stop shaking. That year I didn't pass, I was expecting not to.

Laurie: I applied for MCUK, because I've always been told that I look “curvaceously beautiful.” (Lol) A very good friend of mine; Elsa has also been supporting me to turn up at the auditions and have a go. I always felt that curvy women had something to offer to society and to the Fashion industry. I am a curves lover; I really think that curves are beautiful.

2)      When you found out that you were one of the top 20 finalists, how did you feel?

Pippa: When I found out I had got through to the final twenty I was over the moon! I had just got a new job starting Jan 2015 and all I could think was "wow, this is a great start to my 2015 and we are still in December 2014". I felt truly blessed!

Serena: When I found out I was in the Top 20 for Miss Curvaceous UK I was really speechless. When I attended the Auditions looking around the room you see so many Beautiful Girls and your perceptions of each other are completely different so you can never be too sure who is going to get thought from who's not.
Anastasia: This year I got an email alerting me about another audition for it. I've been trying to get into professional modelling since I was 15. I have had fun in the process, but I've never really felt comfortable, apart from my height. For a model they usually say height is good! Looking at MCUK I didn't feel scared as in, being judged of course I was nervous, but I felt comfortable.  When I found out I got through, I was so excited! I never thought I would have gotten through what with all the rest of the beautiful women there that were better at posing and walking than me. I was truly grateful.  It's given me an opportunity to receive the training I need and the confidence I need to continue my journey in the modeling industry and so many other things.
 Laurie: I felt extremely honoured to be part of this wonderful experience. I already see it as an achievement as I have gained so much from it.

3)      What would being crowned “Ms Curvaceous UK 2015” mean to you?

Pippa: If I was to be crowned Ms Curvaceous UK 2015, it would mean a new chapter in my life. Although I am already on the road to self-acceptance and not trying to fit in to societies mold but to be myself, I would be changing the perception of modelling in today's society and be the best role model I can be for my nieces and all young girls and in fact boys of what a healthy body should look like.

Serena: If I was crowned Miss Curvaceous UK 2015 it would mean something that words and feelings could not describe. It would be unreal and truly a dream to represent Miss Curvaceous and finally be part of such an incredible team and movement.

Anastasia: If I were to be crowned MCUK 2015 it would mean the world to me! Not only to know that I have inspired other people to join the 'curvy' team... but because I have achieved something also for me! I love modelling, even though I'm not confident I actually enjoy it and winning the contest would just show I have learned everything I was taught and that I have moved up a step further.  It would be amazing. I would love to also use that to help people out there that are not as confident and are insecure and that don’t think they are good enough.  I would love to make them acknowledge they are beautiful and they can be and do whatever they want.

Laurie: Being crowned Ms Curvaceous UK would be a real accomplishment for me on my model journey. As far as I am concerned MCUK incarnates the recognition of the existence of different beauties that should all be recognised. MCUK embodies inspiration for all women that are struggling to accept who they are. MCUK shows that open-mindedness and the understanding of everyone uniqueness. These are the values that I would stand for if being crowned Ms Curvaceous UK 2015.

4)      What does 2015 hold for you?

Pippa: 2015 so far seems to be a year of growth and change. a year of success and many more to come I hope!

Serena:  I am sure 2015 will have many surprises and opportunities for me. I believe as one door closes another door opens. In June I graduate from University so that will be a wonderful experience for me along with rewarding myself with a holiday to Mexico in August to celebrate, which will be definitely well earned and needed.

Anastasia: 2015 holds a lot for me... I feel that due to the fact I am one of the finalists it has opened a few more doors for me. I have met some amazing people along the way also. I am still in college so I have exams coming up but I feel that I have something that I enjoy doing to look forward to.

Laurie:  In 2015, I would love to inspire more people.  This is something that I am already doing on a daily basis by being a school teacher, but I would love to inspire more people of from different ages to accept themselves more through modelling careers.

 Thank you ladies for taking the time to talk to me.

You can catch all four of these gorgeous girls strutting their stuff on the catwalk on Saturday 31st January at De Vere in Canary Wharf.

 Make sure to get your tickets here; http://www.mscurvaceousuk.com/#mcuk-finale




Meet The MCUK Ambassadors; Sheivelle

#MCUK
Introducing Sheivelle - Ms Curvaceous UK Ambassador 



1) Why did you apply for MCUK?
It was my mum who actually pushed me to do it. She's always going on about how great I am, so I said why not.

2) So, you weren’t picked as one of the 20 finalists, but you were given the extraordinary opportunity to become an Ambassador for the brand. What were your initial feelings when you found out you weren’t a finalist?
Honestly I didn't feel any type of way I was just happy that the plus sized models are being recognised in this country and given a platform to be plus sized, beautiful and proud.

 3) What does it mean to you to be named an Ambassador of the MCUK brand?
When I got the call I felt so privileged and I was super excited to be part of something that I stand for. It was amazing.
4) What does 2015 hold for you?
I just plan to grow as a plus size ambassador and help make a change even if it's the smallest change we all start form the bottom to make it to the top.
Never miss out on Sheivelle's movements by following her here...







If you have any questions for Sheivelle, feel free to comment below :)

Meet The MCUK Ambassadors; Kat

#MCUK
Introducing Kat - Ms Curvaceous UK Ambassador & Lifestyle Blogger.



1) Why did you apply for MCUK?
2014 was a big year of changes for me, I got my smile back & committed to taking back my life in a positive way. I was on brink of depression, hating myself in ways I cannot describe. I went to my GP for help and since then I have been on a road to recovery. I started a blog and through Twitter I saw MCUK advertised. I didn't realise at the time how big the Plus Size industry was and when I saw this ad I thought why the hell not. I have always dreamt of modelling in catalogues & Magazines like Simply Be, SLiNK or Evolve but have always been discouraged because of my weight, teeth & dress size. I wanted to prove to myself that I am capable of anything I set my mind to. I want to live my dreams not just dream them.

2) So, you weren’t picked as one of the 20 finalists, but you were given the extraordinary opportunity to become an Ambassador for the brand. What were your initial feelings when you found out you weren’t a finalist?
The MCUK workshop experience for me was amazing and empowering and it really affirmed to me that this is definitely the path I want to follow. I didn't believe for one second that my audition would be successful simply because of the calibre of talent that was in that room with me but I figured I could always try again if I didn't make it through. When I found out I didn't make the 20 finalists I was gutted but not surprised and I took away from the experience a lot of confidence, new friends and a lasting memory.

3) What does it mean to you to be named an Ambassador of the MCUK brand?
When I got the call from Theo over the Christmas break I couldn't contain myself. I had resided myself to the fact that the MCUK chapter of my book had been closed until the next audition.  It is such an honour to be involved with such an influential brand, that is built to inspire and empower the Curvy ladies in society. Being an Ambassador for the Brand will allow me to inspire women to realise they are beautiful.  So many ladies are facing the same insecurities I felt, many have these aspirations but aren't aware how to or simply aren't confident enough to take that step alone. I want to help them exceed their own expectations and help them embrace their inner & outer beauty and love the body they have. I want to help banish the line between sizes & promote body confidence.  Individually we can shout but together we will be heard.

4) What does 2015 hold for you?
2015 so far has been eventful and this opportunity has opened my eyes to many avenues that are waiting for me.  2014 was my best year yet so it's gonna be hard to top it but I am committed to try! MCUK is gonna help me tick off at least 2 things of my bucket list; walking the Catwalk and meeting some of the people who inspired me to start this journey. In my book that's such an achievement already.

2015; me & you, yeah...we're gonna make our mark on the world! 

Let's get socially connected...
       

If you have any questions for me, feel free to comment below :)

Meet The MCUK Ambassadors; Jerri Hoath - Ms Curvaceous UK Mentor & Ambassador, Curve Model & Former Finalist.

#MCUK
Meet Jerri  - Ms Curvaceous UK Mentor & Ambassador, 
Curve Model & Former Finalist.


1) Why did you apply for MCUK? 
I entered MsCurvaceousUK because my little girl was going through a tough time at school. She was feeling incredibly low and I saw it as an opportunity to try and build my own confidence whilst also showing her that you can do anything you put your mind to even if you are made to feel like it would be impossible. She believed in me way more than I ever had myself and wanted me to go for it so I did. And boy am I glad I did!

2) What was the MCUK competition experience like? 
From start to finish I have to say it was one of the best experiences of my life. After my audition I left feeling like a weight had been lifted of my shoulders. Being around ladies oozing with confidence, curves and beauty made me feel as though I could relax and embrace my figure for the first time in my life. I wasn't worried about people judging me. Such a refreshing feeling.
Making finals and training along side ladies that have gone on to become very close friends of mine was such a great experience. The choreographer Reuben made me evolve from 'a mummy trying her hardest not to break her ankles whilst walking in stilettos' into a Curve Model. Each rehearsal I found my confidence would grow and grow. Everybody was noticing it.  
Walking on the Catwalk at the finals was the best feeling. Watching my little girl grinning from ear to ear at me, knowing how much this journey had helped us both was a moment I will never forget. I was so happy to see my friend win she was truly deserving but In my eyes all of us had won in our own ways because we had all our own reasons for being on that catwalk.

3) What does being an Ambassador of the MCUK brand involve in your opinion?
I love modelling. But without being given the opportunity to share what I have learnt on my own personal journey and trying my best to inspire others I wouldn't feel my job is being done properly. I KNOW beauty has no size and I pray the day will come that the future generation are able to look and see women of all shapes and sizes in their magazines and throughout the media. The way it should be. Being an ambassador gives me the chance to stand up for all that Ms Curvaceous UK represents and to be part of a team of like-minded strong women.

4) Since your involvement in MCUK what opportunities have you taken? 
I try to take all opportunities I'm given with open arms. I have worked alongside models I had admired for years and recently I had a chance to mentor and run part of the MCUK confidence workshops. I have talked on the behalf of Curve models on T.V and I have built bridges with some brands in the U.S.

5) What does 2015 hold for you? 
Hopefully many wonderful things. I don't like to talk too much about projects before they are set in stone but there are a few amazing ones on the cards! I would love to go over to the U.S and shoot there! This year is about growth and spreading the word for us curvies!

Never miss out on Jerri's movements by following her here...




If you have any questions for Jerri; feel free to comment below :)

Meet The MCUK Ambassadors; Angelina

#MCUK
Meet Angelina - Ms Curvaceous UK Ambassador 


1) Why did you apply for MCUK?


I applied for MCUK because growing up as a teen into my adult life friends and even strangers in the street would often stop and tell me ''you should be a model, you've got the height and the looks''
But in the back of my mind growing up as a teenager in the 90's I knew that modelling would never happen because I wasn't stick thin. So I just took the compliments, said thank you and put them to the back of my mind. I was in a bad relationship too at the time, that I developed an eating disorder to become thin. I thought being thin equalled being attractive as a 17-19 year old girl. Thankfully now, I've grown to accept that I will always have curves, then I came across MCUK recently. I remember thinking finally, an agency/ organisation that promotes curves. So I jumped at the opportunity, it was also great to help bring some confidence back.

2) So, you weren’t picked as one of the 20 finalists, but you were given the extraordinary opportunity to become an Ambassador for the brand. What were your initial feelings when you found out you weren’t a finalist?
When I found out I didn't make the final 20, I was gutted, who wouldn't of been. All of us that entered would loved to of been taken through. I was just proud that I actually entered it, I wouldn't of done that a couple years ago. I knew deep down that doing something like the MCUK audition was just going to be the beginning for me and push me to seek other avenues into the modelling industry.

 3) What does it mean to you to be named an Ambassador of the MCUK brand?
When I got the phone call, my hands were sweating with nerves as to what the phone call could be about haha. Then the role of Ambassador was explained to me, and of course I jumped at the chance, I think I said Thank you oh my God about 20 times to Theo. As a young girl growing up surrounded by magazines, celebrities and diets I know how much I let it affect my mindset as a young girl, so now i'm adamant not to let those sorts of things affect the women of today, I can't wait to start promoting that curves are ok and sexy. After all there is such a thing as being curvy but fit.

4) What does 2015 hold for you?
2015 has got of to a great start already with being asked to be Ambassador, I guess the world is my oyster now. I also work as a Nurse with vulnerable children both boys and girls up to the age of 18, so I can use this new role to promote body confidence, self confidence and being proud of yourself to them too.
I'm also hoping this year brings me love, my knight in shining armour, haha
Never miss out on Angelina's movements by following her here...




http://instagram.com/ange_o84


If you have any questions for Angelina; feel free to comment below :)