Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Masi.
Hi Melissa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My neighbor asked if I wanted to go with her to an open call for plus-size models at Wilhelmina Model Agency. I didn’t know really anything about what size you needed to be or how to model but thought it would be worth going and seeing what they said. I didn’t have Polaroids or pictures so I brought some proof sheets from a beauty shoot a friend asked me to do. That day they gave me a contract and I’ve been with Wilhelmina for almost 21 years!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Every road has a bump or two…or 10 (lol). But mostly I’ve worked hard and had some great opportunities. The biggest struggle I had was really, in the beginning, trying to find the size and “look” that was good for the industry and that I was comfortable and confident in.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a model in the curve division. I have agencies all over the US, Canada, and Germany that represent me. I’ve been able to travel the globe and work for clients doing campaigns, e-commerce, and national commercials. I have been really proud to have longevity in this career. I have client for over 10+ years that I still work with. I always joke that I’m not the prettiest model…or the best model…but in combination with my personality the total package has been great for me!
What do you think about luck?
Luck is an interesting word. I would say timing, opportunity, working hard, and being professional have been bigger influences in my career.
Contact Info:
- Email: melissamasi@me.com
- Instagram: @mel.masi
- Facebook: @melmasimodel
Image Credits
Nicole Lebris Creative
