The Models Studio Featured in Summerville Journal Scene
Modeling class molds young children
Image Provided: Karina Morazzi, Miss Charleston, signs an autograph for Pinewood student Caroline Byrd.
By Michael Tannebaum
Summerville Journal Scene
A group of forth- and fifth-graders at Pinewood Preparatory School took strides to become model students and citizens by participating in a nine-week modeling class, which taught them how to excel on the runway, in the classroom and beyond the school walls.
The non-graded class was part of Target Tuesday, a Pinewood enrichment program that allows students to enroll in a class of their choosing based on their interests and needs.
The class, which was taught by Avis MacLellan, director of The Model’s Studio in Summerville, instilled self-confidence and poise in the students, said Marilyn Davis, Pinewood Headmaster of the Lower School and Target Tuesday director.
“The element of getting up in front of a group and being able to confidently walk across the stage carries over into public speaking and how (the children) present themselves to adults,” Davis said. “They also learned about style and how to dress for success.”
The students, who were taught how to strut on the runway and held a fashion show during which they modeled clothing from the 1920s to the present, developed self-esteem through the program, MacLellan said.
“The program is not about modeling, but how to connect the dots,” MacLellan said. “It’s about having the students (look) into themselves to find out what they want to do after they finish school and what career choices they’re thinking about.”
MacLellan instructed the students on etiquette such as manners to use on the telephone, how they should properly introduce themselves and the importance of shaking hands with colleagues.
The lessons the students learned from the program will stick with them for a long time, Davis said.
“I hope they remember the feeling of accomplishment when they participated in the fashion show, the sound of the applause and that all of that hard work really paid off,” Davis said. “I also hope they learned that a lot of life is within their control in the way they choose to dress and look people in the eye.”
Teachers who had students in the program noticed transformations in the children as they progressed through the course, MacLellan said.
“I’ve had so many teachers say this program has brought shyness out of kids and that their grades have gone up,” MacLellan said. “It’s helped the students really shine and excel in their academics.”
Contact Michael Tannebaum at 873-9424 ext. 215 or mtannebaum@journalscene.com / Reprinted in entirety with full permission from The Summerville Journal Scene per Judy Watts.
SC Fashion and Modeling Industry News: Today Show Uncovers More Modeling Scams
For so many young girls today, becoming a “Top Model” is all they dream about! They are bombarded with TV Reality Shows like “America’s Next Top Model”, “The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency”, and even Vogue has a new modeling show coming out in August called “Models.Live”. “You can be a model” is pumped 24/7 into the heads of our young people. [Watch: How to Make it as a Top Model from The Model's Studio]
- What is the reality of becoming a Top Model?
- Should it cost you an arm and a leg to get into a reputable “modeling school?”
NBC's Today Show warns of Modeling Scam Dangers
NBC’s The Today Show just did yet another undercover story called “The Ugly Side of the Fashion Industry” dedicated to revealing some of the shady agencies that take your money and rob you of your dreams.
There are “modeling schools” that offer you anything you want to hear – from promises of “runway modeling” to acting jobs...but you will have to pay dearly for it…AND, there is no guarantee of success.
How Top Model Scams Work...
This is how the scams work: (This particular undercover story focused on Barbizon, however, that is not the only “shady agency”) Each year hundreds of young people are invited to the International Modeling and Talent Association Convention in NYC. This is a Barbizon sponsored event.
In fact, Barbizon “owns” the convention – so they are not inviting you to participate in any function that is recognized as legitimate by the Fashion Industry.
The Today Show Undercover Team followed two young ladies from the Burke family. They both desperately want to be be a model and an actress, respectively.
They went to Barbizon for an interview and were so excited that they “got accepted.” [The cruel fact is that "you get accepted" no matter what...as long as you can cough up the high price tag.]
The girls were both invited to preform in the IMTA Convention in NYC for the price of $4,700.00 PER CHILD.
The parents were interviewed and said they came up with the almost $10,000.00 “because they did not have the heart to disappoint their girls.” That’s exactly what these scam modeling agencies are counting on!
Despite both girls being very overweight, the parents were told
“that both girls have what it takes to make it.”
The only thing they “made it” to was a Barbizon sponsored convention to preform with other Barbizon “models” on “the Barbizon runway.”
After that 10K+ fiasco for the Burke family, the girls have never received a modeling assignment or even a mere casting call to go out on an acting job! The parents were so hurt and outraged, they contacted NBC’s Today Show who decided to send in an “undercover agent”.
The undercover reporter interviewed with Barbizon and after displaying no real talent (not even knowing how to “walk” or properly “turn on a runway,” she too was told “she has what it takes” to make it. She was invited to the IMTA Convention to preform IF she could pay the $5,000.00 entry fee!
That is the ugly side of the beauty industry!
The North American director the Elite Modeling Agency in New York plainly stated on camera that it should cost $0.00 dollars to get discovered! That is the very same thing that Avis MacLellan of The Model’s Studio has been telling girls for years!
SC Model "Jordan" posing for The Model's Studio photography shoot
The Model’s Studio will be only too happy to take girls straight up to NYC and walk them through the interview process at America’s top modeling agencies. Avis, once a supermodel herself, already has relationships with these “real” agencies and knows when the right days are for open calls.
What Avis wants her modeling students to know is this, “You cannot represent a top modeling agency if you do not know what to do, how to walk, how to turn, or how to conduct yourself when you get there. Just having a pretty face in NOT enough for a top modeling agency to keep calling you back for jobs.
When you are chosen as a top model, they expect you to represent their corporate image and make money for them. That is why a certain amount of diligent training is an absolute must. That’s the kind of training The Model’s Studio provides with a proven track record of integrity.”
So, What is the reality of becoming a Top Model? Slim to none without the proper training!
Should it cost you am arm and a leg to get into a reputable “modeling school?” NO!
If you would like to go to NYC and interview with top modeling agencies for real, just call Avis MacLellan at The Model’s Studio and she will give you all the information you need to get there…the right way!
Why pay into a Five Grand Scam…when you could potentially become a model with a lasting career at a reputable top modeling agency?
Let The Model’s Studio set you up for success to be the best YOU you can be in whatever you choose to do in your life. It’s called The “BE” Campaign!
The logical choice is up to you. Call Avis for a free consultation: 843-261-9696
“The Model’s Studio courses are based on the principles of Positive Reinforcement. Positive words spoken in a young person’s life, enhance their dreams and desire for success in all things.”
The Model’s Studio is always looking for top models. If you are a SC Model, or want to be, call the studio today.
How to MAKE IT as a Top Model – How to Get Discovered – watch the video
HOW you present yourself to everyone else in the world can make you or break you. Watch and listent to Avis as she explains how she made it as a Top Model and then give her a call today to discuss your dreams: 843-261-9696.
How to be a Top Model - Avis MacLellan Interview with The Sentinel News
Avis MacLellan explains to the Senitnel News how she “MADE IT” as a Top Model. From being a young girl in Valdosta Georgia, to making it in The Big Apple, NYC, Avis recounts her experiences.
Learn from it. Avis has already walked down the road you want to travel.
Being a Top Model today is much the same as it was just a few years ago in that the Agencie’s that will hire you want you to be healthy in mind, body, and soul.
As Avis explains, “If you are out there making money for a Top Modeling Agency, they do not want you to jump off the deep end.”
Modeling Agancies are looking for more than just being pretty…they need you to be a well rounded representative of their company and product line. You cannot achieve the overall balance without the proper training.
The Model’s Studio is not geared “just” for those who want to be a Top Model. Right now, there are over 132 areas in modeling that you can make a ton of money in…”if” you know what you’re doing.
Avis’s sound advice is something you really need to consider. If you want to be a Top Model, then you can call Avis and she will be happy to speak with you about your options. She will invite you to The Model’s Studio for an evaluation. Avis is more than “just” a SC Certified Modeling School Instructor. Avis is a Life Coach.
If being a Top Model is “your thing,” then come into the Studio with Avis and get a free analysis of your particular skill-set. If you are interested in going into another field of study with your life, then come into The Model’s Studio and get set up for the classes that are going to prepare you to be, say, “the best doctor you can be.”
Every young woman “out there” is on a stage. It’s the Stage of Life.
HOW you present yourself to everyone else in the world can make or break you. Do you know how you are supposed to act when you on your first college interview?
Do you know what is proper dress, hair and makeup for your first REAL job interview…really? The first impressions you make can and will affect the direction your life will take. What Avis invites you to do through The Model’s Studio is “BE” the very best YOU you can be; whether it’s Top Model, Doctor, Lawyer, Teacher, or Business Owner.
Those self esteem and competency skills are not something you are born with, they are skill sets that have to learn. You are invite to learn them with Avis at The Model’s Studio. Give Avis MacLellan a call to discuss what your dreams really are and where you can take them!
Watch Avis explain how she made it as a Top Model and then give her a call today: 843-261-9696.
The Legacy of Fashion – What They Left Behind – Pinewood Prep Grandparent’s Day Fahion Show
The Legacy of Fashion Through the Ages – Free Fashion Show March 6, 2009
“The Legacy of Fashion – What They Left Behind”
Avis MacLellan of The Model's Studio invites everyone to come enjoy The Legacy of Fashion at Pinewood Prep.
You are invited to join us on March 6th for the Grandparent’s Day Fashion Show at Pinewood Prep in Summerville, SC.
It will be held 1:30 in Freedom Hall Auditouim. The fashion show, organized by Avis MacLellan of The Model’s Studio, is free to the public.
Pinewood Preparatory School is located in Summerville. Follow this link to get specific directions and a map to the show.
Fashion Show Theme:
“The Legacy of Fashion – What They Left Behind” will feature styles from 1920′s to the present.
Pinewood Preparatory School is proud to have a satellite office of LifeManagement Center on its campus that is open to the public. LifeManagement Center is a non-profit organization of educational consultants. To find out about their services, please click below: http://www.lifemanagement.org/
You Can Be Miss America! Karina Morazzi from Summerville Won the Miss Charleston Pageant 2009
Karina Morazzi Miss Charleston SC- 2009 | Photo by Roddy MacLellan for the Model’s Studio
Congratulations to, Karina Morazzi, formerly Miss Summerville, who was crowned Miss Charleston this past weekend!
As Miss Charleston, Karina will go on to compete for the title of Miss South Carolina…and you know what that means? Miss South Carolina will go on to compete for every girl’s dream, the crown and title of Miss America.
“I have a history with the lovely, Karina.
When she won the title of Miss Summerville, she received a Gift Certificate for runway walking lessons, how to apply makeup professionally, and over $300.00 of FREE Model’s Makeup Cosmetics from the The Model’s Studio.
I am also proud to say I picked Karina’s winning song for her, Somewhere Over the Rainbow. She used my studio whenever she needed to practice. My heart and soul goes out to her with JOY; because I know how hard she has worked for this title.
I will also be working with the new Miss Summerville 2009, Donna Sellers. Her resume is quite impressive. She’s beautiful and smart. We shot fabulous photos of her last weekend and we’ll be posting those photos for you soon.” – Avis
Karina Morazzi - Miss Charleston SC 2009 - Photo by Roddy MacLellan for the Model’s Studio
In addition to winning funds for school, the Miss South Carolina title comes with a lot of notoriety and civic responsibility.
The Miss America Organization is a non-profit organization that has maintained the tradition of empowering women to achieve their personal and professional goals. During competition, they get to display their talent, express their opinions, and show their true beauty through intelligence.
- The Miss America Organization is the leading provider of scholarship assistance for young women in the US.
You can be Miss America, too! We live in a new era where making your dreams come true can be a reality for anyone…but that comes with a lot of hard work, and that work usually starts very early in age.
If you are interested in pageantry and presentation to become the best you you can be, to prepare for academic excellence, and to pave a way for future success in all you do…call and speak to Avis at The Model’s Studio, learn about the “BE Campaign,” and register for your free headshots. The Model’s Studio is looking for top models!
Learn the poise the etiquette you need to walk the Red Carpet one day, just like Karina Morazzi, our reining Miss Charleston! The Model’s Studio is proud that she has now moved on to win Miss Charleston and will be competing for Miss South Carolina.
How to Get Through the Holiday Treats
Turkey and Dressing Holiday Dinner
If you are one of the lucky ones who can eat anything they want and not gain weight, well, you are blessed. And you make up only 2% of the population in North America.
Fact of the mater is, just like everyone else does, models have to watch what they eat and “how” they eat very carefully. Food is fuel for our bodies.
Around holiday time the unhealthy treats and goodies abound…and then some.
So, how are you supposed to keep your lovely figure with upsetting Aunt Mary, who took the time to load the sweet potato casserole with marshmallow topping?
A Guide to Daily Food Servings
Moderation is the key. Whether it is holiday season or not, anything you eat out of moderation is too much.
Try to stick to lean turkey meat, and modest amounts of the sides that are not healthy. Remember that you don’t have to be stuffed to the gills before walking away from the table. Eat until you’re full, then that’s all.
But what about the desserts? If you must have super sweet treats around holiday time, make it count. Only, have the slice of pie or cake in moderation. If you deprive yourself all together, it could make a cake binge more likely later on.
Balance your holiday treats with fresh fruits and vegetables and a healthy dose of exercise and you’ll be just fine!
Ask Avis: How do I make the transition out of one career and into another? Tips for the SC Corporate World
How to Make the Transition
Recently, we have been getting more and more questions from women making a transition out of one career and into another.
More Women are leaving the military service, and other careers, to enter the Corporate World of SC Business
One that stood out was from a beautiful woman who came to The Model’s Studio and said, “I have worn a uniform for the US Government for 20 years. I am about to leave military service for the first time in over two decades…and I feel like I am emerging from a cave.
I have no idea what make-up to buy. I don’t know how to dress for anything upscale…like the Christmas Party downtown this year. I don’t know how to dress or how to make myself up for even attempting to enter the Corporate World.
I have tons of experience…but I never really learned to “be myself”…can you help me?”
Avis…how do I make the transition without getting “ripped off” at the make-up counter?
How am I supposed to know what is the best way to dress and make-up for events, interviews, etc. I don’t know who to trust…and it is a very personal matter.
Dear Transition,
It’s tough to answer this without seeing you. What works for a 5’2” blonde will not work for a 5’8” brunette, this really has to be done as a personal consultation. We need to analyze your life style, skin color, type and tone. We would need to decide on your body type and what styles and lengths will flatter you best.
However here’s a few general tips that I have always used when advising women on these subjects.
Purchasing makeup can be tricky if you don’t know what colors and shades look best on your skin tone and with your eye color. The makeover at the cosmetic counter will be geared to sell you their products, not necessarily what works for you, I’ve some scary faces coming out of the Mall!.
That’s why an independent make-up consultation/lesson can be so much fun!. We like to teach you how to apply your makeup, so you’re able to adjust your look from business professional during the day to glamorous Diva in the evening!
Bold colors and fads are no place for the office or Corporate Environment! They do not command respect anywhere but the runway or in fashion magazines.
You need to know how to shape your brows to frame your face, and how to choose a lipstick color for day and another color for evening. Stay away from the latest “trendy looks” if your over 40, we would go with a more polished classic look, using lots of earth tones. PLEASE don’t get sold on purple frost eye shadow!!
How to Dress for Success
Dress for success, by building your wardrobe with clothes for Interviews and looking professional. We can help you develop a style that’s cost effective by choosing accessories and knowing how to mix and match what’s already in your wardrobe.
How do I transform my style?
Sometimes a few blouses, skirts and pant suits are all that’s needed to transform your style.
You don’t need to go to Neiman Marcus to do this!! To be taken seriously, skirts should be no more than 2” above the knee when sitting, wear simple gold earrings, only 1 ring on finger, and a small bag that matches you pumps.
Looking professional doesn’t have to boring or frumpy, it’s about being chic and tasteful!
Ladies we can do this!!! Call for a free make-over today: 843-261-9696 . Remember…it’s fun.“We believe that beauty & health are mutually intertwined. The best makeup products will help & enhance the outward appearance of your overall health.” – Avis
That’s what life is all about anyway. “BE” the best YOU can BE!
The Model’s Studio: “Empowering people, building lifelong skills for confidence and self esteem. Creating a positive attitude, by learning poise, presentation, elegance!”
Modeling, Pageant Skills, Make-up, Hair, Health and Beauty Instruction.
High Expectations – Be Your Dream
“It is the nature of a person to rise to greatness
IF greatness is expected of him.”
John Steinbeck (1902–1968)
Novelist and Nobel prize winner
What one thing do you expect of yourself today?
How can you start to develop high expectations for yourself?
Be your Dream with Self Esteem
You can start by learning how to present a positive image, through grooming, etiquette, make-up and hair. Developing poise, posture, walking with style and confidence, and positive body language. Learning wardrobe styling and garment selection for job interviews, social events and professional business appearance.
I believe these are all necessary skills in today’s competitive environment, and are a perfect compliment to strong academic achievement.
The Principals of Positive Reinforcement – A Message to Parents
The Model’s Studio courses are based on the principles of Positive Reinforcement. Positive words spoken in a young person’s life, enhance their dreams and desire for success in all things.
Fashion in SC – Red Carpet Fashion Show to Benefit Goodwill by The Model’s Studio
The Model’s Studio is pleased to announce our participation in the Goodwill Fall Fashion Gala, the biggest fashion event in South Carolina, to support the Charleston Community and Goodwill Industries.
Press Release | October 8, 2008
Charleston, SC – Pull out your dancing shoes, dust off your auction paddle, and get ready to spend an evening with the fishiest! Goodwill’s 5th Annual Fall Gala will be held at the Charleston Aquarium on Thursday, October 23 beginning with a Registration Cocktail Reception at 6:30 pm.
Avis MacLellan in paris - The Model
The gala, hosted by Tom Crawford, will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, music, live and silent auctions and a Fashion Show choreographed by Avis MacLellan, former New York Fashion Supermodel and owner of The Model’s Studio.
This year’s fashion show is inspired by the red carpet and will star local talent and community leaders, Tracy Amick, Marika Kelderman, Victoria Hansen, Neville Miller, Sheldon Duets and Sonya Cording, as well as models from the Model Studio.
The models will strut their stuff down the red carpet sporting high fashion pieces that were all donated to and found at Goodwill retail stores.
Bid on a relaxing trip to Stevenswood Spa Resort in Northern California’s breathtaking Mendocino Coast that includes airfare for two, four-night accommodations and a spa gift certificate! Or show your team pride by bidding on an autographed football from Clemson’s Head Coach Tommy Bowden! Whatever your tastes may be, the live and silent auctions will have a trip or gift package for you!
Title: Goodwill’s Annual Fall Gala
Date: Thursday, October 23, 2008 6:30
Location: South Carolina Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
Tickets: $60 per person, $100 per couple
More Info: http://www.palmettogoodwill.org
Proceeds from the event will benefit local programs and services offered by Goodwill Industries. Over the past 29 years, Goodwill has evolved into an organization that has helped over 81,000 individuals in South Carolina prepare for employment through job placement services, career fairs, youth programs and Operation Independence which helps veterans reintegrate into new jobs.
Goodwill reaches out to the homeless population through clothing vouchers and awareness events, and to disadvantaged seniors through Goodwill’s Golden Angel Tree Celebration.
Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina is a nonprofit social service organization whose mission is to help people achieve their full potential through the dignity and power of work. Goodwill employs over 850 people and served over 12,300 people in the Lowcountry community in 2007. For more information about Goodwill’s programs and services, please visit http://www.palmettogoodwill.org.
