Today we’d like to introduce you to Valeria Perez.
Hi Valeria, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hello, my name is Valeria Perez and I am a 23 year old model. Born and raised in a small city called Lowell, Massachusetts. Growing up I always knew Modeling is something I wanted to pursue. I used to watch “America Next Top Model” with mom a lot and was so infatuated with the creativity and beauty behind every concept.
I could say my childhood was fun and lively. It became a roller coaster when I hit my early teenage years. I was not hanging around the right type of crowd so in return I moved to Orlando, Florida. Looking back, I don’t have any regrets because it made me the woman I am today.
I was always a quiet girl growing up that had very few friends. I knew me being quiet didn’t mix well with the industry that I wanted to be in. So, I decided to take a photography class in high school to get out of my comfort zone. Turns out I was a good partner for everyone when it came to taking pictures. That’s when I officially knew that this is what I wanted to do.
I started taking pictures of myself with different outfits and looks to post on social media because you have to start somewhere right? I then came across this local agency named “No Label Runway” and the CEO Grace was so sweet and welcoming when she signed me. I felt so blessed. She got me my first paid gig. I was so excited and nervous at the same time. Till this day she gives me the same energy and I am honestly so grateful because starting out is not easy.
My modeling career is progressing and growing each day. A lot goes into modeling than just being a ‘model” or just being a “pretty face.” it’s art, talent, and influence. Growing up, I would see Tyra banks and other models of my color and, I would say to myself that’s who I want to be when I grow up. I want to be that to all the little girls who want the same!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I personally think that it’s never going to be a smooth ride when you want to be somewhere in life that you’re not at the moment. Money was one of the problems but also my confidence was an issue as well.There was a point in time where I didn’t fully love myself and would criticize my looks but, I took it day by day and realized that I am God’s creation; and God’s creation is beautiful.
Starting out there were some castings where I had to pay for my own travel expenses but I did it anyway because I believe that if you want it, you have to go for it. I remember one time I only had around $200 to last me for the rest of the month. I was in Miami, and some girls invited me to go out that night. I then received a call from an agent saying that I just got booked for a music video for a high-end artist that paid very well.Of course, I took the job instead of going out. The problem was I had to uber there and back. In Florida, everything is far away so it cost me. I still went through with it because I knew this was once in a lifetime type of thing. I felt so blessed to receive that opportunity.
There are a lot of challenges that models go through. I love to do runway shows but sometimes I’m not skinny or tall enough for it. I hope that changes in the future.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Right now, I am focused on growing more in this industry. I do all kinds of work; music videos, runway, commercial print, commercials, brand deals, etc. I can do it all.I have worked with all different kinds of people and brands; dj khaled, tory lanez, shiggy, hot boii, icon swim, nutrithick,and more! That’s what I love most about what I do; meeting new people.
What makes you happy?
I don’t have one specific answer of what makes me happy; a lot of things do. One of them is knowing God has a plan for me in the future and I have a feeling it’s going to be great. So I get excited just thinking about it!
Modeling takes a big part of my happiness but I love Doing activities, trying new things and being around animals.
Pricing:
- $100-150 an hour music video
- $100 an hour photoshoot
- Brand deals depend on the request
Contact Info:
- Email: lionessvall@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lionessvall/
