Today we’d like to introduce you to Brooklyn Van Zandt.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My story began when I was six months old and I got signed to the Kim Dawson Talent and Modeling agency in Dallas, TX. I booked my first national catalog ad before I could walk and received my first paycheck before my 1st birthday; I haven’t stopped working since. I continued through the years modeling for stores and brands such as JC Penney, Dillards, Walmart, Neiman Marcus, Nike, Ralph Lauren, and Mowhawk Carpet which ended up being an international advertising campaign landing me supermodel status before my 5th birthday.
Once I learned how to read I started auditioning for TV and commercials. I have booked and worked on five tv commercials and continue to train, audition and model. I also have a love of singing and started sharing my singing on live streams which gave me the confidence to start performing in some local concerts. I take vocal lessons and am teaching myself how to play the piano so I can continue to write my own music.
Along the way, I started documenting my journey on social media which grew into a career in itself. I’m known as HouseofBrooklyn on social media. I’ve been verified by four apps and have 2 Million fans across all platforms. Social media has allowed me to start to travel and attend some amazing events as well as meet some of my followers. I love using my platforms to spread positive vibes and kindness because this world definitely needs more of that.
A lot of people tell me I am so lucky, but luck really is just hard work. I have accomplished so much in life already but I feel like I’m just getting started, I have big dreams and goals for myself and don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon.
Has it been a smooth road?
Along with all that I do when it comes to modeling, acting, singing, and social media – I also am a full-time student at a public middle school. Grades are important to me and I am enrolled in all AP classes and the long hours of school and homework can sometimes leave me drained. I miss a lot of school for jobs and auditions so it takes a lot of extra work to get caught up in class.
I also do sports and cheerleading which keeps me extremely busy. There have been times where I have to miss out on parties or hanging out with my friends because of work, travel or auditions. Having a lot of followers can also bring haters. I get my fair share of hate and jealousy comments and try to ignore it or come back with something positive.
At the end of the day I am a normal teenager with a million emotions, so there are days I feel defeated or emotional or not good enough, but I have amazing support from my family, friends, teachers, coaches and fans that give me the confidence to keep doing what I am doing.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
HouseOfBrooklyn was a name my Mom came up with when I was little for an Instagram page to share my journey. The name stuck and it is what I’m known as today on social media. I guess you could say Instagram is my landing spot to promote all my different platforms; it is the place where I get contacted the most for business as well. It could be another app asking me to join, or modeling gigs, or simply other creators asking to join in on collabs. I have been contacted thereby businesses wanting to send me products to sponsor or share on a post which is always a fun job as well.
The best feeling is meeting new fans. It could be a meet and greet or even at the store and I have people walk up and tell me they love me, want a hug, want a selfie or just simply tell me that I inspire them. People have told me that they have changed for the better because of things I do and say or how I treat people. I don’t really know what I am known for… modeling, acting, singing, social media, etc. but I do hope to leave people feeling a little bit better, happier or inspired. I believe in being yourself, loving yourself and sharing the part of yourself that sets your soul on fire.
What sets me apart from others is my determination and work ethic. There is something in me that won’t let me stop no matter what I am doing. Sports, work, music, etc. When I was old enough to write, I would make lists and goals for myself and I never gave up until I could mark it off my list. I wrote a letter to the President of the United States telling him that I was going to make a difference in the world and asked him if he could send me a few pictures of his dog. He sent me a letter back with 15 printed pictures of his family, house and dog and I knew right then that if you want something you just have to ask for it and do it.
I have learned that you can reach your goals, it takes a little bit of hard work every single day and that work adds up to a lot over a week or month or even a year. My next big goal is music, I am determined to have one of my own songs produced in the next year. The struggle is picking which one will be my first. So in the meantime, while I’m busy being my goofy self, I’ll be sharing my journey on making a difference in the world. So if you’re not following me yet, you should – HouseofBrooklyn.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I think Dallas is a great city for anyone wanting to start in the modeling and acting industry. There are many big companies with Dallas headquarters that use locals for their advertising. Some of the top agencies in Dallas are Kim Dawson Agency, The Campbell Agency, The Clutts Agency and more.
If you want to get started with acting, then look into classes and training. Cathryn Sullivan is one of the best in Dallas and host to workshops with top Dallas and LA agents.
Dallas is also host to summer meet and greets that I attend each summer to meet and mingle with fans and followers. You can follow my Instagram for information on dates and times.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.BrooklynVanZandt.com
- Email: HOBfam@brooklynvanzandt.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/houseofbrooklyn
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/brooklynhob
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/brooklynhob
- Other:Like App – HouseofBrooklyn
TikTok – HouseofBrooklyn
Vigo Video – HouseofBrooklyn
Image Credit:
Zunyan Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
