Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Parks.
Natalie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have always put my heart and soul into everything I do–from academics, to hobbies, to community service. As of recent, I have devoted a vast chunk of my time to something I have always adored: photography. Well, in actuality, I love being in front of the camera… not necessarily behind it! And from this discovery stemmed my love of modeling. My first entry into this field was presented after I was selected to work with a modeling team that represented a DFW photographer. This experience awakened a desire within me to continue to go after my dream of becoming a model. From that point on, I have collaborated with a myriad of amazing professional photographers, makeup and hair artists, and even stylists. I have even modeled a dress made entirely of balloons! I absolutely adore fashion, modeling, and blogging–and as a recent Valedictorian, IB Diploma Programme recipient, and honor graduate of Denton High School, I am beyond excited to finally be able to devote my time to these arts.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As with all journeys, I have had to deal with a variety of obstacles–in particular, these obstructions took place in the form of social constructs. Previously, I did not believe that a model could be short; this was what I had been told my whole life. And as I am only 5’4”, I never dared to pursue my modeling dream. However, in light of such a rapidly expanding and modernizing world, the modeling industry itself has augmented; nowadays, models of all shapes and sizes are more welcome on the runway and in front of the camera. A few years ago, I would have never believed that I would be walking in fashion shows–it had been drilled into my head that one must be at least 5’8”. Anything is possible when you hold a willingness to reach for a goal.
Natalie Parks – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I suppose that I possess quite a diverse skill set: while my primary focus at the moment is modeling–I have been published more than fifteen times now–I am also a fashion and lifestyle blogger (basicallyblondie.com), Vice President of a nonprofit organization called First Aid Strong, an Influencer for Texas Teen Models Official Magazine, a freshman at Texas A&M University, and work for Denton City Hall as well as for a start-up in Dallas known as DriveAds. I certainly like to keep myself busy! My passions are spread throughout a variety of industries, but I hope to expand my expertise within all of these realms in the future.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
To me, success is defined as the ability to not only craft a goal, but to go after it with determination. My personal characteristic of undying tenacity has enabled me to plant a steady foot into every field of my association. When I have a goal to reach, I commit to that and work until it is well within my grasp. In addition, I have learned that a continuous seeking and seizing of opportunities will create favorable outcomes. My ultimate goal is to utilize my modeling, blogging, and community involvement as vehicles to inspire change within not only my peers, but throughout the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://basicallyblondie.com
- Email: natalieparks1227@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalie.parks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalie.parks.1
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/natalieparkss
Image Credit:
Kevin Wehrmeister
Tim Bracey
Clint Chastain
Hector Reyes
Cesar Guzman
Brian Page
Lexie Krug
Kylee Swisher
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.
