On the first day of a two-day photo shoot for a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel fall fashion spread a few years back, I assembled my hair and makeup team and headed Downtown to the newspaper’s photo studios on Third Street where the shoot would take place. Model prep was actually in a conference room on the third floor, while the studio itself was on street level. Because of space limitations, models and stylists were forced to take the elevator up and down several times per hour all day long. Not quite the glamorous life one would expect from portrayals on television, but what made the day go smoothly was a gorgeous model I met, Miss Neda Stevic. With a gentle spirit, she endured the tugging on her brown mane, the poking and prodding of the fashion stylist and the indignity of having to parade herself through the newspaper offices to make our way to the studio. Not only did she and I joke and quip about the set up, but we also connected on an intellectual level. I am proud to say that we are still close to this day! We recently shared a conversation that I thought shed new light on the perception we have of models and the fashion and beauty business in general. Driven, passionate and creative are just a few of the superlatives that I would use to describe this hard-working “modelpreneur,” but I’ll let her words and images paint a better picture for you.
 |
| Neda Stevic. Photo by Tom Miller. |
How long have you lived in Milwaukee?
I have lived in Milwaukee all of my life, and I’ve also lived in Spain. I travel all over the country for bookings, and Milwaukee is a great base to do that from, especially since all of my friends and family are here.
When did you first have an interest in modeling?
I have always had a strong interest in modeling, fashion and art. When I was 7, I began filling books with my drawings of models wearing runway outfits.
How did you get your start?
I sent my pictures to the local agencies in the Wisconsin and Illinois markets, and eventually expanded my markets to secure representation nationwide with agencies in different cities. Much like investing, I got my images in as many markets as possible to generate the most revenue. Soon, clients such as Revlon and Dillard’s began booking me simply because they saw my images on an agency’s website they looked at when booking models.
 |
| Neda Stevic. Photo by Tom Miller. |
You work both in front of and behind the camera. How did that come about?
To help pay my college tuition at UWM, I would sell my paintings on consignment at boutiques around town. While modeling, I realized that I could definitely cross-market myself by also providing hair and makeup services. It was the wisest move I ever made in this industry and a fantastic way to make a great living as a commercial artist. After all, every face is a unique 3D canvas for me to embellish according to my artistic interpretation of the client’s request.
How long is the average modeling career?
That really depends on the individual and how motivated they are in marketing themselves. Some people only last a few weeks and expect everyone to find them, and others do it for the rest of their lives by building great relationships with their agents and clients. For instance, the most adorable model couple I ever worked with was celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary the same day we worked on the Nestle Nutrition video shoot!
What is your favorite of all the jobs you’ve done and why?
My favorite job was a photo shoot for Miramonte Resort in Palm Springs, Calif. We spent several days shooting in the spa and at the restaurant. I had the fantastic opportunity to work with Guess photographer Odette Sugerman and Klexius Colby, who is a hair and makeup artist for Janet Jackson, Madonna and Kate Moss, to name a few. People were lounging poolside while writing screenplays. A close second would be a billboard I was on in Times Square, NYC, for LG Technology for an entire year.
Any advice for anyone wanting to go into the business?
Yes. The new breed of successful models are what I like to call “Modelpreneurs.” Modelpreneurs use all of their skills to their advantage to create revenue. Not only do you have to have a look that will resonate with clients, but you also have to think laterally. Never seek to just do well on the current project, seek to build a long-term working relationship with each client and agency. Maintaining contact and expressing an interest in the clients and companies you work for will help you create relational income in the long run. Remember names and important tidbits of information (even if you have to sneak off to the bathroom to jot down a list of names of the people you’re working with that day). Always express appreciation to clients and agents for booking you. A thank you card is always a fantastic token of appreciation that goes a long way.
 |
| Shady Lady necklace. Photo by T.H. Taylor. |
What are your plans for world domination?
I’m inspired by Modelpreneurs such as Cindy Crawford and especially Kathy Ireland. They have generated far more money well after their supermodel days by licensing their names for multiple product lines. For instance, I read that in 2007, her company, Kathy Ireland Worldwide, in which the green-eyed beauty holds a majority stake, generated $1.5 billion in retail sales. Ireland herself takes home at least $15 million of that.
I had a chance to meet Kathy Ireland and work with her for an entire day at the Bridal Mart in Chicago last fall. It struck me how sweet and personable she was to everyone all day, even when mobbed by fans in the bathroom!
Currently, I am writing a book “Modelpreneur”, which explains how models can leverage their skills and assets into lifelong income. In addition, I have created a one-of-a-kind jewelry line (Shady Lady) and am working on a collection of paintings. Part of all proceeds will benefit animals in shelters. Finally, I intend to keep modeling and doing hair and makeup, and continue offering private or group classes on how to break into either industry. I am also one of the national TEMPTU instructors and offer airbrushing to my clients. It’s the most advanced way to offer high-definition results to my clients, and has revolutionized my career as an artist.
Any beauty tips to share?
Always wear sunscreen, especially in the winter when the snow reflects UVA and UVB rays back at you. Limit processed sugars and get plenty of rest. Emergen-C packets are also great since the high doses of Vitamin C help combat free radical damage and slow down aging. Exfoliate your skin gently and regularly. And liquid silicone foundations will give you the best results, and won’t age you by texturizing your skin! TEMPTU makes my favorite ones (S/B foundations available at www.temptupro.com). One bottle should last you a year to a year and a half, with only four to six drops needed per use. My secret weapons are: Temptu’s Champagne Shimmer highlighter, Barbasol shaving cream (as mousse for hair), and Maybelline Great Lash Mascara in Blackest Black (because it won’t flake or melt under hot studio lights).
As you can see, this lady knows a thing or two about a thing or two as my grandma liked to say. Although we all know that what is on the surface is what really sells, true beauty and style come from a warm heart and an open mind to the world around us, and right here in our own hometown.
