How did you discover Barbizon of Akron and Pro-Model and Talent?

Bev: I was at a stage in my life where I was trying to discover something new and exciting for myself. Someone suggested I try Barbizon of Akron and Pro-Model and Talent Management. This was before I met Floyd!

Floyd: For me it was quite simple, Beverly was with Pro-Model and Talent and thought I could profit from the experience, personally and financially.

Do you feel you would have been exposed to the auditions and assignments you’ve received without representation through Pro-Model and Talent?

Bev: Definitely not. Pro-Model and Talent has been great for me. They have gotten me involved in auditions which have all been learning experiences. I have received many modeling and acting assignments which have been both enjoyable and lucrative—all of which I am very thankful for.

Floyd: Without Pro-Model and Talent as my talent agency I would have little to no opportunity for any type of professional or legitimate assignments in modeling or acting. Pro-Model and Talent does the footwork (research) and I just follow directions. I love it!

Tell us about some of the auditions and assignments you’ve done.

Bev:Each audition has helped me "mature" as an actor and a model. I’ve done all kinds of work in print and production for companies like Wayside Furniture, Aultman Hospitals, Invacare, Billows Funeral Homes, and KeyBank, to name just a few. Probably the most exciting assignment was with Major League Baseball for the Cleveland Indians! The shoot involved working (I call it playing) the whole afternoon at the closing baseball game in Cleveland for a television ad the following season. Even better, Floyd was cast as my on-camera husband! We were able to create this memory together, and make great money, too!

Floyd: Let’s see, Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Cavaliers, Aspen Dental, an infomercial for EdenPure heaters that has been running nationally for three years with annual changes (they keep bringing me back for more work), MedCentral Health Systems, the covers of 4WD Hardware Catalog and Improvements Catalog, Altercare, and many more I can’t even think of now.

With your experience now, do you feel training is essential in the business? Why?

Bev: Yes. I, for one, thought when I first looked into modeling and acting that learning what to do just wasn't necessary. But, definitely, after completing the training and getting involved with Pro-Model and Talent Management, I am constantly using and remembering what was taught to me. I realize there's much more to being an accomplished and "wanted" model than just "playing it by ear".

Floyd: Absolutely. It's easy to believe you are confident, but it is another thing altogether to display that confidence before a camera lens when you’re acting or modeling. The training reinforces and develops the natural talent each of us does possess. Just realizing the body language we project, and improving that facet will undoubtedly act positively on any serious aspiring model or actor.

What is your best piece of advice for aspiring models or actors beginning in the local market?

Bev: Take heed to what is said and taught to you. You’re new, and this is your foundation for entering the world of acting and modeling. Be the best you can be and always be courteous, gracious, and thankful.

Floyd: Have fun, but take it seriously, and remember that ultimately it is you selling yourself to the client. This is not a "get rich quick" business, but rather a phenomenal tool for personal growth, that through your personal and financial investment can lead to future success.