7 Questions with...
This is an ongoing series called "7 Questions with..." where we'll highlight someone we think is cool, fun and inspiring in the hopes of picking up a few pieces of wisdom from his or her life journey. Let us know what you think in the comments, and if you have a recommendation for a future interview, drop us a line!
So without further ado, here's our latest installment.
7 Questions with... Braylen Brooks, Social Media Influencer, Jetsetter, Model & CEO at The Real Life Mannequin
Agency Guacamole: Hi Braylen! Thank you for hanging out with us. You're a fashion model in the middle of a world tour and are currently in Paris. As a social media content creator/influencer, you've partnered with some very cool brands to reach your almost 50,000 Instagram followers. It's all so exciting!
To start, please tell us about yourself and your area of expertise.
Braylen Brooks: Sure! I moved to California by myself from Dallas, Texas, when I was 19 years old. I dibbled and dabbled in many different industries under the "entertainment" umbrella, from makeup to fashion styling to modeling and acting.
Thanks to [my] bold personality, I ended up interviewing celebrities and public figures on the red carpet. After 3 years of hosting, I launched my own platform where I could share my style and opinions from the things that inspired me most.
“I love taking people on an adventure while breaking the rules when it comes to menswear!”
"The Real Life Mannequin" (RLM) is a platform where I create digital and visual editorial content for high-end brands large and small. I love taking people on an adventure while breaking the rules when it comes to menswear!
AG: Very cool! Since you're in the digital/social media space, tell us about your favorite social network and why you like it.
BB: I love YouTube because with YouTube there's so many endless possibilities to be creative! Also, that's initially where I started so it holds a special place in my heart.
AG: Your work obviously involves a lot of creativity and we're curious: What or who inspires you?
BB: Beyoncé Inspires me. Her work ethic is undeniable and it shows!
AG: Can't argue with that! She comes across as incredibly disciplined and someone who has to maintain a solid routine. Are you the same? What's one part of your routine you can't live without?
BB: My skin care routine in the morning and night. I have to Cleanse, Exfoliate and Moisturize daily!
“I love what I do so it doesn’t feel like work. I think the balance is being able to make a sacrifice for something that makes you happy on a daily basis.”
AG: OK, here's a tough one. How do you balance professional success with personal happiness?
BB: I love what I do so it doesn't feel like work. I think the balance is being able to make a sacrifice for something that makes you happy on a daily basis.
AG: I think it's fair to say you inspire a lot of people with your positivity and creative content. What's a tip you'd give to someone who wants to follow in your career footsteps?
BB: The only thing that will set you apart from other people that want to do the same thing you do is your sacrifice. All humans have it in them to take a risk to be great!
AG: OK, last question: What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
BB: My Grandma always said: Just because you're picking sh*t with the chickens doesn't mean you have to look like it. Which in other words means, no matter how you feel, get up dress up show up!