How did the idea for "KIS Promotions" come about?
I actually started out as a model(plus being a cheerleader back in the day), participating in various aspects of the industry. After a while, some of the clients I worked for, started booking some of my fellow models/friends. My man actually encouraged me to get this venture started, so we came up with the initial concept of the company. We got the ball rolling soon after. After legalizing it and coming up with a plan of action...I got busy!
What is your position within the project?
I'm the CEO of KIS Promotions. My position includes everything from planning, marketing, promotion, coming up with new ideas for events, booking models and sometimes even working the events with my models! Anything that has to do with KIS Promotions, I play an active role in it. I keep it tight like that because project represents me.
How has the project grown or changed since its inception?
KIS has actually been in business for over three years. The company website(www.KeepItSexy.com) was launched in April of 2005, so alot of people are just beginning to hear about us through the internet. The site has really boosted outside knowledge of KIS Promotions and what we do. Since the launch of the site we have had the opportunity to network and work with some great people.
How large is the team that currently assists you with running this project?
It really depends on the event or promotion. Some of the models have degrees in related fields and some are studying the business, so in certain situations I hire them to assist in various events. For a large event or fashion show I have a team of makeup artists, hair stylists, clothing designers, photographers, etc., that I hire based on their expertise.
During an average work week, how many hours do you spend working on the project?
Honestly...I'm involved with this project 24/7! Don't be suprised if you get an email from me at 4am...it does happen! If something needs to be done, or I have a thought, I will put it to work right then. This is definitely not a part-time job for me.
What's the most challenging part of maintaining or operating your website?
Well, thanks to my wonderful webmaster Alan Merritt(www.AlanMerritt.com), I don't deal with the website maintenance. He takes care of the editing of our site...I just send him information and material depending on what needs to be done. But I do maintain and update the photo gallery myself, since there's not a lot of work involved on my part.
What are your goals at the current time for "KIS Promotions"?
I'm sure everyone's New Year resolution is to "step up their game," but mine is to maintain and be consistent. That alone attracts new clients and model to the project. Word of mouth is always a great promotional tool.
What are some other projects you're working on, or anticipate working on in the future?
Wow, well last summer(2005) I produced nine fashion shows for Baltimore's Artscape Festival. It was their 24th year with the festival...but their first year to incorporate fashion and add a fashion show. It was such a success that I have already began planning for July 2006. That is one of the largest projects I have right now, especially since besides the fashion shows, we are going to have some other great surprises and benefits for those in the industry and those just starting out. Artscape is basically a HUGE open festival featuring music, artists, vendors, arts, food and entertainment. It literally attracts hundreds of thousands of people, not just in Maryland, but all over the country. I also have some other things coming up, but I won't let the cat out the bag...just yet!
What part of operating "KIS Promotions" gives you the most enjoyment?
The final product. I love to exceed my clients standards and make them call me next time. I love to see the models out there turning heads and doing an outstanding job at whatever they're hired for.
Do you work a regular 9 to 5 job or is "KIS Promotions" your primary project?
KIS Promotions is ALL I do! I don't have a regular 9 to 5. I do also market and promote for my man. He is a radio personality in Baltimore, as well as a promoter. He has some of the biggest parties and events in Baltimore. His website (www.Konan1.com) is being re-done at the moment, but be sure and check it out to find out what's going on in the area.
What's your opinion of the industry regarding ethnic models today?
I would say the perspective on them is too shallow. They are not just good for the "booty shots" in a music video, and they don't have to use that as a stepping stone. They can be classy, intelligent, corporate, business-minded, professional and articulate.
If you could start this project all over again, from scratch, what would you do differently?
I would have launched the website a long time ago! Like I said, KIS has been in business over three years, but the site has really boosted the company and pulled in clientele and other contacts.
What are the positive and negatives you've experienced when working with models?
Most of my experiences with models have been positive. I always go through an interview/screening before accepting models to work with KIS. That usually eliminates problems before they start. New models are always eager to work and learn. Experienced models have the experience(of course!) and sometimes have other connections to bring to the table. If I have a bad experience working with any model...they'll cease to be involved with me or KIS Promotions!
Do you think being a female, in this industry, makes things easier or harder on you?
It definitely makes it harder, especially when dealing with males. They sometimes think they are smarter than women(notice I said...sometimes!). I have to remind them that we are on the same level. Being a fairly attractive female CAN make it a little more appealing to them to work with me. It can go both ways, it's just about how you deal with the situation and making sure you keep it professional at all times.
What does 'Keep It Sexy' offer it's visitors that they won't necessarily or can't find on similiar websites?
A classy, nicely laid out, easy to understand website, with models that have more than just a nice body. We also provide a nice mixture of models...african-american, white, brazilian, ukrainian, asian, indian, spanish and biracial. We're not really focused on one race or ethnicity.
Are there any current issues being dealt with today that cause you the most concern?
At the current time, there's not one particular issue that I'm concerned with.
Ok...unfortunately there will always be 'haters' lurking around. Have you experienced that since starting "KIS Promotions" and if so, how have you dealt with it?
One incident I've had another agency involved them saying untrue things about me, to a mutual client. Of course, in an unsuccessful try to get more business from them. Again, word of mouth is the best tool. In that case, employees of that client let them know the real deal and told me about it. I don't worry about things like that, as long as my people and I know what KIS is about.
Tell us some of things you couldn't live without?
Food! I love to eat. Also, my computer and Blackberry are other items I can't do without. Technology is great! ;)
What advice would you give to people looking into creating or starting a project similiar to "KIS Promotions"?
Be original and creative. Everyone has things they admire or would like to duplicate, but being original will separate you from the rest.
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