Today we’d like to introduce you to Octavia Smith.
Hi Octavia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hey! My name is Octavia Smith, but you can call me Tavia. I am a 26-year-old aspiring model. Growing up I always were into fashion, clothes, make-up, shoes, and all! When I was little, I always wanted to wear little high heel shoes, especially ones with the fur on them. I loved lip gloss and colored lip gloss; that was the only makeup my mom allowed me to wear. When I got older, I begged my mom to let me wear eyeshadow. That wasn’t until I was in high school when she allowed me to wear eyeshadow and I was in love lol. Fashion was like my second language; I had my own style and I always wanted to give my friends makeovers.
I watched America’s Next Top Model and I imagined myself doing just that, I just knew I needed to get over my stage fright. I’m also not tall just 5’1 and not skinny, but the modeling world has changed so much since then.
As much as I love attention and all eyes on me, it still gives me anxiety. But it’s all worth it for me in the end. I know I want to be well-known or close to famous. I’ll take either one!
About 2 years ago I finally decided to get into the modeling world. I started out with photoshoots and working on my social media following. I did a few shoots and had my favorite photographers. Last year, I had to take a little break due to me having personal issues and also dealing with eczema. I fell off the radar for a little bit. Up until this year, I decided to get back in the groove. I worked out and came back even stronger. I did a fashion runway show, Something I never thought I would do. I have flat feet, so I always wanted to just do photoshoots because I was nervous to fall or not walk straight. But after my first show in Minnesota, I knew runways were for me! I have only done 3 fashion runways so far and I have more to come. The feeling when you walk with everyone cheering you on is like no other. It’s a wonderful rush.
Now it’s about to Winter, I’m going to be back in the gym going hard. I have a body goal to reach. I will also be taking some winter shoots; I have a lot of ideas to come. Every time I do a photoshoot, I always have my own image that I want to bring to life. Modeling really is my second life. I know I’m a little up there in age but that isn’t going to stop me! I am going to be someone, and a lot of people will know my name. My following has gone up and I am expecting it to keep going up for me and more gigs.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has been a little bumpy. I dealt with eczema which was something serious. I had a really big outbreak in November 2021. I was really embarrassed that I didn’t want to even go outside. It was a breakout all over my body from head to my toes. I stayed in the house for a while until the breakout went down. I had to take medication and everything. Now it’s better thank God!
I also struggle with anxiety, a little of anger issues, and depression. I am now getting therapy for. In the modeling industry, it is a lot to deal with on top of everyday life. I have my days at times, but I just take one day at a time.
There’s also dealing with haters. I don’t really be affected by that like I used to. Now I feel like if you gave haters, it’s a good thing, you’re doing something right in my eyes. People don’t like to see you grow and be something great I grew to realize.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As of right now, I am a freelance worker. I work for Doordash throughout the week. Delivering food to customers. I been doing that ever since Summer started this year. I love doing it and making my own schedule. It’s a lot of physical work but the money is worth it. I also do PCA services as well. That’s my second job. I am about to get another job as a part-time substitute eventually.
The things I am mostly proud of as of right now is having my own apartment. I got my own place last year and I love having my own space! Also owing my own car is another thing I am proud and blessed for.
I am proud that I overcame my stage fright and accomplished runway fashion shows, Something I didn’t think I would even do. I have more projects I am working on. I have a business that I am going to be coming out with pretty soon!
I feel like I am very original. That’s what sets me apart from others. I don’t follow the crowd; I do my own thing and I stay in my own lane. I am all natural and will always be. I have a very unique personality and a great sense of humor. I like to say don’t judge a book by its cover.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
Facebook- Octavia Smith
Instagram- @octavia.smith
Snapchat- @chocolatee-mami
TikTok- @chocolateemamiii
Email- tavia.fashionista25@gmail.com
Located in Roseville, Minnesota
Pricing:
- $50-$100 for a 1-hour shoot
- $50- $100 Video Shoot
- Fashion shows- I accept money and/or clothes to be discussed
- Brand Amabassador- Money to be discussed or clothes
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/octavia.smith/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/octavia.smith.92798
Image Credits
@Kenneth Allen
@Prince Kumi
@Alex Monson
