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

Hi Rachel, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
This is an excellent question. Balance is essentially important in all walks of life! I have maintained the balance with modeling and magazine publishing by scheduling when I am able to shoot and finding time to work on the magazine too. I never do both in the same day. I also work a part-time to help with expenses outside of the businesses. I used to take a shoot whenever I had a day off, and then work on the magazine late nights. I learned that exhausting yourself yields poor products. Self-care is so important in this industry.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I have two businesses: 1st- Raejay.83official Modeling. I am a freelance model in DFW. I collab and work with fellow creatives in the industry. I am a curvy model and also started in my late 30’s. It’s never too late to pursue a passion. This is mine! 2nd- You’re It Magazine and Life Photography Magazine. They are my magazines that I publish monthly. We feature models and photographers from around the world and love to help others get their name known. This is known as an “Exposure Magazine” and helps small businesses get the word out about their photography. It also helps models build exposure and portfolio content.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First Stop- Mi Cocina (Mambos and Food is next level)! Second Stop- Shopping at the Galleria (so many shops!)
Third Stop- Coffee with my Mom! She is a delight to everyone and so humble.
Finally- Night on the town through Uptown Dallas. Building and Structures everywhere. A tourist’s dream.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give thanks to God, first in for most for everything. Without his blessing, I would have nothing. Truth! Secondly, My mom and husband for being the main support system in my walk so far. They are also my top fans with all my modeling ventures! My family and friends that have been their since day 1 and all the photographers that I met on the way. Truly wouldn’t have made in without their talents as well. Each day we help each other grow in this profession and the networking group I continue to grow with. Special thanks to all!

Website: www.youreitmagazine.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/Raejay.83official

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Raejay.83official

Other: www.instagram.com/youre_it_magazine www.instagram.com/life_photography_magazine www.facebook.com/youreitmagazine www.facebook.com/lifephotographymagazine

Image Credits
Photographers: Juan Gonzales, Eli Flores, Jandy De La Rosa, Cruz Photography214, Mark McCallum Photography, Stockyards Photography, Travis Tucker Photography, Hawk Ridge Photography, and Deonigel Photography. These are some of the Great Photographers I have networked with but their are so many to mention!

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