Next up in our Model of the Month Series is Meredith Hertlein. Meredith is not just the sister of our designer, Mallorie Carrington – but also a huge supporter of the brand. She has been modeling since our first Look Book in Spring 2014 and is a constant feature in every collection. Meredith and Mallorie chose their favorite photos of Meredith to feature!
1. Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do day to day?
Ha-ha – What don’t I do day to day? I am a stay-at-home mom to two adorable children – a 2 year old boy and a 4 year old girl. That makes me everything from a nurse, chef, chauffeur, or maid to an organizer, educator, therapist, or philanthropist, but most of all, I’m the Boss. When I do manage a few minutes to myself I like to take ballet classes or rehearse to play flute in a local volunteer orchestra. I’m also active in a local parents group who organizes outings and play-dates for local families as well as monthly book club meetings and parents’ night out.
2. How did you get involved with the brand?
Well, I’ve know the owner all of her amazing life as I am her big sister!
3. You’ve modeled for us multiple times – aside from being the designers sister, what makes you continue to come back?
I come back to the brand because the clothes look amazing on me, are easy to wear, and yet are still fun and fashionable. I come back to modeling mostly because it’s fun and it gives me a chance to be Meredith instead of “Mom.”
4. What does body positivity mean to you? Has modeling for us changed your relationship with your own body?
Body positivity starts with self acceptance and grows to self love. It’s not just about learning to accept and love yourself for who you are or what you look like, but also taking that love and putting it back into yourself so you can learn and grow and be the best you you can be. We only get one body in this lifetime, so take the time to nurture it and fuel it healthfully. There is no one ideal body. Everything in nature is beautiful and unique and as long as you are happy being you, that is all that matters.
I started modeling with Smartglamour and taking ballet at roughly the same time. I feel like both have helped me strengthen my poise, stature, and posture and given me a direct injection of self-confidence. I worry a lot less about what others may see as “wrong” with me physically because anyone who has those mean nasty critiques are not even attempting to know the real me and must not have anything better to do than pick someone a part.
5. If there is a message you could put across to other women through your modeling photos – what would that be?
Whatever you do, have fun with it! If you’re not having fun, you’re not living and when you are having fun, you’re too busy enjoying yourself to worry about anything else!
6. What is your advice to other women who would like to give modeling a try?
As someone who NEVER modeled before this I would say, if you are interested in trying, just go do it! Surround yourself with some fun, fabulous friends who will make you laugh, relax and enjoy yourself! The natural smiles and laughter make for the best pictures. Try to remember where the light is (though, admittedly, half the time I forget that one myself) and a small glass of liquid bubbly courage can do wonders! Cheers!
