Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Erin.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was never a shy kid. I was tall, outgoing, and I enjoyed being the center of attention. Naturally, my parents enrolled me in a modeling school called Barbizon. It was not a “career launcher” as we might have imagined, but it sure did teach me a lot about the industry and it taught me how to be confident at a very young age. After graduation, I continued with some child modeling and worked a bit in the city. I eventually drifted from it, especially during my college years when I had other things to focus on. After graduating from Illinois State University in 2015 and working a “regular” job, I considered reentering the modeling industry. I soon signed with an agency in Chicago, and I eventually ended up being busy enough to model full time and live in the city. It has been a learning experience, but the more I grow in this industry, the more I love it. I recently left that first agency I had signed with in Chicago, and I am so excited to announce that I am now working with 10 MGMT!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Because Chicago is not the most competitive fashion market, my struggles have been limited. That is not to say that I did not have any, though! In my travels, I have run into some harsh critics. Modeling is tough, and it isn’t for everybody, and that is totally okay. Typically the people that will try to put you down in this industry simply wish they could be in your shoes (literally) walking the runway or working in front of the camera. If you take it all with a grain of salt and keep your head up, you’ll make it out on the other end much stronger.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My boyfriend, Michael Cherwin, has been a massive help for me throughout this journey. When I was thinking about re-entering the modeling industry, I was NOT my best self. My confidence was not where it needed to be, I was not treating my body right, and I had no idea where to begin as a 22 year old in a sea of 15 year old models. Mike kicked my butt in the gym and gave me so much love and support so that I could feel confident entering this industry again. He is still the first person I show images to when I get them back from a shoot, and I take all of his advice super seriously.
Additionally, I have to thank the awesome photographers that I have gotten to work with so far. They are people that have pushed me to try new things, do more than just take “pretty” pictures, and they have helped me get outside my comfort zone. I love being able to work with such artistic and driven people!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.modelashleyerin.com
- Email: ashleyerinbrehmer@gmail.com
Image Credit:
Clay Boutte, Karl Rothenberger, George Mario, Melissa Morley
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
