Photography: IRVIN RIVERA

Photo Asst: PHIL LIMPRASERTWONG

Styling: KATE PERIS

Makeup: SIFA SITANI

Hair: CHERRY PETENBRINK

Agency/Agencies: Photogenics / Fusion Cape Town
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada
Current Location: Los Angeles, CA
Instagram: @modelomilano

Who is Milan?

Im a vegas Girl, born and raised. I have a passion for the modeling industry and
all around is a family girl who also puts God first.

Whats the story behind your name?

Well, my fathers name was Melvin and my mother’s named Lonnie… They also
owned a hair salon, and they came up with the name “Melanie’s”

Where are you from originally?

I am originally from LAS VEGAS, NV, known as VIVA LAS VEGAS

Where are you based now? Would you stay there for a while?

I am now currently in Los Angeles and yes I have decided to be based in LA and
live in the future.

Tell us your story when you got scouted.

I went to collage in Houston, Texas when I got scouted, I have always been
interested in becoming a model, but just didn't know when really was the best time for
me. I wanted to experience collage and I did, Just a year. I went back to Vegas and got
signed with a local agency. Vegas is not at all a market for models, but I had a great
agent who had great connections with other agencies and opportunities around the
world. One of the best choices I have ever made in my life.

What inspired you to be a model?

Being the girl who stood out in school and other events where a lot of my peers
were, I found myself always being the most unique and will get scolded for it. i knew I
was unique but I didn't seem to believe I was beautiful. I didn't have the body the boys
liked, my complexion was not light enough and my teeth and smile was not up to
anyones standard. But there where always someone telling me I should be a model
because I was uniquely beautiful. Everything I disliked about my self was appreciated
in the modeling industry.

Whats your favorite part about being a model?

My favorite part would have to be the traveling to different places in the world.
Tell us about your memorable experiences in modeling so far.
I remember I was on a big Job for Paul Mitchell and while I was pretty much
ready for my close up, my hair and make up was done, I was styled and ready to go. I
sat down on the stool while the photographer was testing the light. The clients, hair and
makeup artist, all of the stylist that were involve was all looking at me. They were
beyond satisfied. It was a moment of gratitude, like it was my purpose to be doing what
I am doing. Ever since then I always give everything I got at a shoot, even if Im not
getting paid to do so.

How do you manage your time being a model?

Your pretty much on call as a model, stay prepared at all times, but I have
learned to not sit and wait for the next job or casting, I have learn to appreciate my
availability to do the things I want to do. Sometimes I will Book out when I need to
spend quality time with my family.

What book are you currently reading?

I am reading “You're A Badass” by Jen Sincero

What else do you keep yourself busy besides modeling?

I am a Huge family person! I go back and forth to Vegas to be with my family and
also giving back to my church and being a motivational figure to teenage girls who I
have inspired. I would love to do more of that in the future.

What comes next after modeling?

After modeling, I would love to get into property investment, flipping and sailing
houses.

Any advise you can give an inspiring models out there?

My advice will have to be to stay true to who you are, and don't compare yourself
to other models. What is for you will always be for you, and no one can take that away.
 

What is my dream project?

to work with the GREATS!! Mario Testing (towel series) Steven Meisel and Ellen
Von Unwerth.
 

Tell us a secret.

I used to have silver caps on my teeth because they were rotting.
 

Currently binge watching?

I am currently binging Family Guy lol I feel like I have watched everything I
needed to watch.
 

If your going to have a book, what would the title be?

I never thought about it but I would probably name it “Lemons”

If you be giving the chance and opportunity to help a specific charity, what would it be
and why?

I would love you help build a house with my bare hands to give back to those
who have lost there homes due to fires and natural disasters. I think it will be amazing
to show a family or two, that starting fresh and new can be the start of something great
for there future.