We had the good fortune of connecting with Valencia Ray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valencia, how do you think about risk?
From the outset, l’ve always been resolute about the goals l’ve set for myself in life, steadfast in my commitment to pursue them despite the challenges along the way. Confidence and dedication have been constants in my journey. However, as a freelance model, navigating the risks of budgeting and investment can be intimidating and most times overwhelming. There’s never a guarantee of immediate success in any career path. Yet, what stands out are the experiences gained and the relentless effort invested, thankfully appreciated by those who witness the dedication and understand the journey taken to achieve it. All of that to say, eleven years of modeling equated to nine years of rejection. My biggest risk was daring to dream in a world that often looked down on short petite models. I do feel like the situation on the matter is definitely why I started out crawling through windows instead of walking through doors. Instead of being defeated by this, it made me stronger, blessed and humbled. Everything I do, I do it as a role model—for the little kid who needs inspiration to keep going and never stop pursuing their dreams, no matter how vivid.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I am creating visual art in any medium it makes me excited to be able to have a blank canvas and turn it into something that I envisioned. When I model though, it makes me most excited to work with so many creative and talented individuals, gaining knowledge and experience through them. Of course, when I do bridal and fashion modeling the perk is being able to play dress up in all the beautiful gowns and designs, especially with high fashion modeling you are really able to connect with that piece and connect to what the art you are wearing is trying to say.
I also love NOT Gatekeeping. If I know you do something cool and talented, I’m telling everyone. I love connecting people and I know by doing that..the right people are going to find me exactly when they need to. I build my brand by helping others build their brand.
I got to the point i’m at creatively and professionally by being stubborn, not taking no for an answer, and making my own way if no one was there to help me. Anytime I felt like I was about to give up, that was an opportunity to keep pushing because I just felt like opportunities were still in front of me.
I want people to know that someone like me from Gadsden, Alabama can pursue a modeling career and create art with these huge and talented creatives. Putting the hours in, staying humble, and working on my crafts (photography, canvas art, set design, jewelry making, wardrobe stylist etc.) Will that continue for me?…I’m Ready!!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We have a beautiful water fall here in Gadsden,Al. Noccalula Falls is very beautiful to hike and spend a day by the flowing creek and just take in what nature offers. There’s also a winery close to the falls, Wills Creek Winery, that offers a beautiful mountain landscape scenery that I always recommend to tourist. When anyone wants to take a shopping trip, I’ll take them to a local boutique, RocknSoul, at the mall. Downtown offers an art museum that I try to visit twice a month.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank Stone Ragan, my soon to be husband, and our family for giving me the space and support to always be creative and cheering with me when even the smallest accomplishment is met. Day ones forever!!
I want to thank my bridal family in Huntsville & Athens Alabama for letting me slay in their dresses and making all the wedding content days come to life. Every single team member has a special place in my heart (especially the photographers for making me look good in different angles) the magazines keep coming and they look phenomenal!!
I want to thank my newest ATL crew for giving me the opportunity to work on such a wonderful project. It was another goal crossed on my list to work with not one but two celebrity fashion designers.
And a huge thanks to my Agents at Red Birmingham for helping me get ready for this huge shift that’s about to happen.
Blessed!!
-Valencia

Website: https://www.redmodels.net/valencia?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZ2AfrStd1C4-WdvOcAbcXRbqokmef7CtnZcthoAJOcEmiynhk_8eXTMOA_aem_554kvvDqYeBQUmowVYJZlQ

Instagram: @lencii_valencia

Image Credits
Suzi Day Photo

Annaka Rochelle Photography

Willow Pines Wedding Magazine-Jenny Reese Photography

Red Models Talent Birmingham,Al- Chuck St. John Photography

Abby Satterfield Photography

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