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

Hi Jaia, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Strut Honey is committed to bringing diversity to the forefront of the fashion and entertainment industries. Our mission is to create opportunities for individuals who are often underrepresented, particularly youth and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. We provide a platform where people can express themselves authentically, build confidence, and showcase their talents in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Through our fashion shows, creative projects, and community initiatives, we help aspiring models, performers, and creatives gain exposure, develop valuable skills, and connect with opportunities that can help them grow personally and professionally. We believe representation matters, and we are dedicated to creating spaces where everyone feels seen, celebrated, and empowered to pursue their dreams.

By championing diversity, inclusion, and self-expression, House of Honey strives to make a lasting impact on our community and inspire positive change beyond the runway.

Group of young women standing outdoors, wearing matching black T-shirts with gold text, some with sunglasses, in an urban setting.

Smiling woman waving outdoors, wearing a black T-shirt, navy skirt, and a gold chain belt, with people and buildings in background.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The road to Strut Honey wasn’t easy—it was built on trial, error, and a commitment to learning every step of the way. What started as a vision turned into a movement, producing over 15 fashion shows in just four years.

I never expected it to be easy. In fact, if everything came effortlessly, there would be no room for growth. Every challenge taught me something—how to stay disciplined, how to work under pressure, and how to pause before making major decisions. I’ve learned the importance of timing, structure, and coordination in bringing a vision to life.

Producing fashion shows goes far beyond what people see on the runway. It requires building a full production from the ground up—casting models, developing a team, organizing logistics, and ensuring every detail aligns with the vision. It’s demanding, but it’s also where passion meets purpose.

As a full-time fashion show producer and runway model, my life is both exciting and very busy. One of my biggest challenges is managing my time, because there are so many moving parts to what I do.

As a runway model, one of my proudest moments was walking in New York Fashion Week with Flying Solo and being published in Elle Magazine. As someone representing Michigan, that meant a lot to me because it showed models from Detroit and my community that opportunities like that are possible with hard work and dedication.

I’m really passionate about giving back and helping others grow. As a fashion show producer, I’m proud of how much my shows have evolved over time. We’ve grown in so many ways, and we focus heavily on the experience—not just for the audience, but for the models as well. We provide things like hair and makeup, and even self-care services like facials or massages when possible, because I want every model to feel confident, comfortable, and valued.

My goal is to create a space where models can step away from everyday challenges and feel special when they’re part of Strut Honey. At the same time, I aim to give designers a unique experience by not only showcasing their work on the runway, but also creating opportunities like post-show shopping events and professional photoshoots to help grow their brand.

Person with blonde braided hair wearing a white shirt, speaking on a TV show about pride and fashion, with a blue background.

Three people in colorful outfits standing in a TV studio with a screen behind them, two women and one man.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a friend were visiting Detroit, I’d definitely start with a trip to Mootz Pizzeria + Bar for some amazing pizza—because who doesn’t love pizza? From there, I’d take them shopping at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, one of my favorite places to spend the day.

We’d also have to explore downtown Detroit. The city is beautiful, full of energy, culture, and incredible views. I’d make sure to stop by Fashion Station, a wonderful storefront that showcases talented Black-owned fashion brands and designers all under one roof.

No Detroit visit would be complete without a walk along the Detroit Riverwalk. The scenery is breathtaking, and it’s one of the best places to experience the city’s charm. To wrap up the visit, we’d head to Club Pink for a fun night out—it’s a popular spot where influencers, creatives, and trendsetters come together to celebrate Detroit’s vibrant nightlife. Detroit has so much character, and I’d want my friend to experience the fashion, food, entertainment, and community that make the city so special.

Four people standing in front of a promotional backdrop, holding a magazine, in a room with gray carpeted floor.

Group of people outdoors, some with arms raised, standing on a paved area with greenery and a fence in the background.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shout out Sandy Mosley from Finally Mines Boutique for always being a mentor to me she encourages me to continue on with my journey and gives me great advice she has been with me since day one with endless support she shows up and helps me last minute when I need her. She will see up a garment in two days when I’m in need and she makes our shows so much easier. She cooks for our shows. She is my favorite person ever I love her.

Website: https://www.instagram.com/struthoney?igsh=a2htdDc2cHYzbmdq&utm_source=qr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjaiahoney?igsh=MWc4OTlvN3UybmVuMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Model walking runway in elaborate costume with large feathered wings and headpiece, audience seated on sides, indoor setting.

Woman dancing in a large indoor space with seated audience, stage, and string lights in background.

Image Credits
Theaznmedia

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