Plus sized beauty Ronnie Howard has been featured on NBC, CBS, Ashley Stewart, BET’s Rip the Runway, Ebony Magazine, Kohls, and several online stores. But like many other plus-size models, Howard has experienced the frustration of being told she was either too big or too small. “I’m currently a size 14, but at one point I was a size 18–some clients loved it, others wanted me to come down a few sizes. Now that I’m down two sizes, some want me to bigger. I want women to embrace their curves and understand that there’s no one size fits all, even in plus modeling. I want to encourage women to embrace the size that’s perfect for them– because the industry’s perception of perfect is always changing. This is one of the reasons that I created “The Learning Curve†workshop to let women know that they can model at any size,†said Howard.
[Related: Venus Opal Reese Teaches Black Women Entrepreneurs How to Break Million-Dollar Mark]
With the launch of Howard’s “Learning Curve Workshop,†starting in Philadelphia, PA on May 17, and an upcoming modeling gig walking the runway at New York’s Full Figured Fashion Week, BlackEnterprise.com caught up with the busy trailblazer to learn more about her career and tips for maintaining a healthy weight.
BlackEnterprise: Did you always know you wanted to be a model?
Howard: Believe it or not, no, I unexpectedly got my start as a model. While I was enrolled at Temple University, I was studying communications, I went to a fashion show casting with a friend who was auditioning, and the featured designer asked me to tryout too. I was shocked when I was selected to model in the show, and soon became the face of the brand. Then I started to receive a lot modeling opportunities–from runway shows and TV segments to photo shoots and mentoring young girls. It’s been an amazing and unexpected journey and I’ve loved every bit of it.
Continue reading on the next page…
How do you deal with the industry’s perception of size and beauty?
I learned not to take it personal– modeling is a business. For some clients I was the perfect size, for some clients I wasn’t. I learned not to let my size dictate my career.
What makes you feel confident?
This may sound cheesy, but surrounding myself with positivity boosts my confidence. Positive thoughts turn into positive outcomes, I’m a big believer in that.
What are your top three fitness activities?
Dancing, boxing, running–in that order.
What about healthy eating tips?
Drinking plenty of water, eating six times a day–3 small meals and 3 snacks, and meal prepping so I can maintain my healthy lifestyle on the go.
How do you stay motivated?
Consistently setting new goals, keeping variety in my workouts and focusing on the benefits of being healthy.
What advice do you have for an aspiring plus sized model?
It’s all about passion and tenacity– you have to make the most out of opportunities and have a willingness to learn. Be consistent and you can make it happen. The industry is a combination of talent, hard work and timing.
Tell us more about learn the Curve workshops.
As a model, I’m asked questions on social media and when I’m out and about– how I got started, how I got to where I am today and just tips on makeup, healthy eating– the list goes on.
That’s when I realized I have a voice to share with ladies who are aspiring models and even women who just want to feel confident in their curves. So what better idea than to bring my knowledge and the expertise of my industry friends, to one event and answer all of the questions? That’s why I’m so excited to have this event and have a personal connection with aspiring models and curvy women alike.
What can participants expect?
The Learning Curve workshop is for new, aspiring, and even experienced models. Attendees can expect a day packed with information and fun sessions on how to get started, maintain, and perfect a career in modeling. The event, featuring industry professionals, will focus on what it takes for women of all shapes and sizes to make their way in the modeling industry and simply celebrate their curves.
We’ll talk about casting essentials, the do’s and don’ts of posing, styling, hair and makeup tips for test shoots, what clients and agencies look for, etc. Or simply that perfect everyday look that celebrates your curves. There will also be a light lunch, complimentary manicures for early bird attendees, gift bags and giveaways for everyone to enjoy.
We welcome all shapes, sizes, heights, whatever–to attend this event. This workshop is all about learning your curves and celebrating your body – you only get one.
Is this a traveling tour or just local to Philadelphia?
This is our very first Learning Curve. We’ve had an overwhelming response and requests to bring the event to other cities. So I would definitely consider turning this into a tour. Who knows where we will end up?