Behind the scenes and in front of the camera at the same time. What? The newest reality show? Well sort of…I always say HSN started reality TV 37 years ago! We are live and unrehearsed 24/7. Some of the hardest working people in front of the camera are our models and this year we have four of them with decade birthdays from 30 years old to 60! Day and night they bring their experience and approachable glamour to every show. They don’t speak much on-air but I know they have a lot to say, so we sat down and got chatty with some of them.
30: Heeda
How long have you modeled for HSN?
About 5 years
How do you stay in shape?
I do a mix of yoga, jogging, and bootcamp. I like to switch it up to keep things fun!
Most embarrassing moment when modeling?
Almost every show I trip, miss a cue or do something goofy but everyone here is like family so they never make me feel embarrassed!
What’s your beauty secret?
My beauty secret is preventative care. I really made it a point to start using sunscreen and moisturizers in high school.
What’s your favorite brand to model for?
My favorite brand to model at HSN is Giuliana Rancic. She’s such a fun, positive, amazing person. We have very similar style and taste so I usually end up loving and buying everything in her collections.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not modeling?
Napping and Eating. I love naps and I’m a huge foodie. I go out to eat with friends a few times a week, and I’m notorious for eating off everyone’s plate when they’re not looking!
Who’s your favorite celebrity style?
As much as I love women’s fashion lately I’ve been so into menswear!! Boyfriend jeans, (literally stole my boyfriends jeans) white tees and anything camo paired with skirts sneakers or heels.
Where did you grow up?
Right here in St. Petersburg, Florida
What did you do before you started modeling for HSN?
I started modeling internationally when I was 19 but I’ve always had a love for animals. So when I came back home I worked part time as a vet technician for 5 years. All the other models call me with pet questions or to puppy sit when they’re out of town! So now I get the best of both worlds!!
40: Kara
How long have you modeled for HSN?
I have been modeling for HSN for 12 years.
How do you stay in shape?
The most asked question, how do I stay in shape? I keep it simple. Eat healthy: breakfast (most important) lunch and dinner (usually chix/fish & veggies), drink lots of water, exercise at least 4 days a week (45 mins of cardio & weights) and I don’t obsess about my weight. I eat healthy & workout because it makes me feel better. Also, I have good genes.
Most embarrassing moment when modeling?
My most embarrassing moment modeling would have to be during a jewelry show in the middle of the night. The cameraman was flashing the screen to wake me up or a time when I had a coughing attack. I was trying to be discreet.. My eyes started to water uncontrollably and I couldn’t stop coughing.
What’s your beauty secret?
My beauty secrets are: white eyeliner inside the eyelid for a more awake look and a wider eye. Also, hands down, Sally Hansen airbrush tan for smooth, flawless looking skin.
What’s your favorite brand to model for?
My favorite brand to model for is Giuliana Rancic because I idolize her. I have only filled in a few times. Also, my favorite is of course Rhonda Shear. Not only because her brand gave me my five minutes of fame, but also because I get to model with my best friends, Regina Marlow, Sonja Ryans & Annette Millan.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not modeling?
My favorite thing to do when I’m not modeling is spend time with my family, my boyfriend, and my newest love, Teddy, my puppy. (Shitzu/Maltese).
Where did you grow up?
Believe it or not, I grew up right here in Pinellas county. I actually worked in the call center when I was 16 years old, telemarketing for a Credit Card company. I use to see the models on HSN and dreamed to be one someday.
What did you do before you started modeling for HSN?
Before starting at HSN, I went to college (FSU) for a short time before being “discovered”. I moved to Miami to pursue my dreams of becoming a model. Eight years, a million auditions, stamps on my passport, hard times & good, photo shoot after photo shoot, I followed my passion and never gave up. I moved back home after 9 years because I missed my family. One day, my sister saw an ad from HSN looking for new models. And the rest is history. 😉
50: Natalie
How long have you modeled for HSN?
Over 15 years!
How do you stay in shape?
I enjoy exercising outside so I power walk at our local preserve, run stairs and use light weights. So I can eat my dark chocolate!! 😉
Most embarrassing moment when modeling?
Diane Gilman asking me to do the splits on air in the DG Super Stretch Jeans, and I did!
What’s your beauty secret?
Most importantly I protect my skin from the sun when I am enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, I have used Signature Club A over 10 years and continue to use it today, focusing primarily on Vitamin C and Argan Oil. Staying positive and choosing to be happy every day!
What’s your favorite brand to model for?
Football of course! Go Pittsburgh!
What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not modeling?
I enjoy spending time at home with my husband and our two Boxers, Brodie & Oilver. And we are waiting to adopt our new Boxer puppy, Woodley.
What TV show you can’t turn off?
College and Pro Football, Go Pittsburgh!
Where did you grow up?
Born and raised in Florida
What did you do before you started modeling for HSN?
I traveled for JCP producing and directing their fashions shows across the country. And continue to the same for Dillard’s in the Southeast division.
Fun Fact: I met Carol 34 years ago when I just began to model at age 16, and we have been good friends and coworkers since.
60: Carol
How long have you modeled for HSN?
12 Years
How do you stay in shape?
Have always stayed active. Aerobics, step class, weight training, power walking. Lots of fast clothing changes and walking runways for 40 years.
Most embarrassing moment when modeling?
Getting my heel caught in a crack in the runway and having to leave the shoe and continue walking. Someone in the front row took it out and I slipped it on walking back.
What’s your beauty secret?
Lucky to have great “Genes” from Mom. Also being in this business for so long has encouraged me to stay current in style and tap into all the latest trends and beauty products.
What’s your favorite brand to model for?
Of course I enjoy all of the brands I represent! One of the fabulous, talented stylists at HSN selected a great colorful jacket and tank for this photo shoot for me from Twiggy’s collection who is one of my favorite vendors.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not modeling?
I enjoy walking the beach and our favorite park communing with nature.
Who’s your favorite celebrity style?
I really do enjoy IMAN’s classic, elegant, sophisticated style.
What TV show you can’t turn off?
I do enjoy reality shows. Especially the original ones. All of the dancing shows to mind.
Where did you grow up?
In the suburbs of Chicago.
What did you do before you started modeling for HSN?
I have been modeling, since the age of 19 (41 years), so it has been my only career, and lifelong passion.
Fun Fact: Along with staying an active model, I have produced and coordinated fashion shows and events, and worked with teen boards, and taught many aspiring models.
As you can see and read they are more than just a pretty face! Our models rock! They are some of the hardest working professionals on the runway right in your living room. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to call them friends!
What else do you want to know about the behind the scenes of being a Host or model at HSN?