Hi Vansters,

I feel like I’ve been neglecting this blog due to my business coaching and consultancy company, Ignite the Screen, and wonderfully managing to get clients before the site was even launched. Things are going at a nice pace there now although I’m still very busy with it having just put out a brand new free guide which talks about customizing Facebook pages for business. If you’ve got your own business please feel free to download it.

Due to me being busy there have been no fit posts which is a shame but unfortunately they do take up quite a bit of time to compose and I’ve kind of made the decision to pull back from doing them because they took up a lot of time I needed to dedicate to my business.

But I wanted to use this post to answer a question by the beautiful, fashionable business woman  Monif C as well as share with you some ASOS related news.

This is a long post so please don’t speed read.

Monif said

Hi Vanessa, hope you are doing good…drop a line in the ASOS Curve folks ear that they should consider carrying some of the designer plus size labels on their site similar to how they do with the str8 size lines. I think Monif C., Anna Scholz, Svoboda and the like would be great on the site! Read your blog the other day, keep up the good work!

I wanted to spend some time thinking of a response. It is not the official response; it is my personal response which is very much constructed from observation. So please remember than as you read on.

Having been with Curve for nearly six months I can say it is still a very small subsidiary of the ASOS brand. It may seem big (pardon the pun) to many in the full figured fashion world but it by no means takes the amount of money its mainline does. That is just a simple fact. Curve was only ever meant to give fuller figured women the option of having select core line styles in the sizes of 20-26 (UK) and over time it’s managed to stick in a few exclusives which aren’t on core.

It’s not like Simply Be or Evans; these companies are solely set up for the full figured fashion market. Curve is classed like maternity or petite, so as a business at this point it would not serve ASOS to bring in new full figured lines as Monif has suggested. Not at this point.

This may not seem fair but from a business perspective it makes sense to leverage their own brand first before they even think of bringing in new lines.

But there is also a flip side which no one really likes to talk about but being as it’s me writing this (and not a cookie cutter PR) I’ll just go ahead and say it.

Have you ever wondered why Curve (at time of writing) is never featured in Asos magazine? Have you wondered why there isn’t a huge amount of press around ASOS Curve in mainstream media? It’s not that team don’t want this – it’s in my view because the hierarchy that runs ASOS don’t seem ready to want to put full figure out there as a main marketing niche. They market to ‘straight’ size young fashionables.

This used to make me quite angry but really from a PR perspective I can see why a predominantly ‘slim’ niche clothing company would be hesitant to show full figure women anywhere on their site. This is why I believe you will never see size 20 models on Curve.

The knee jerk reaction would be to claim ASOS don’t like fat people. That is rubbish. I know this because I’ve never worked in a place I’ve had so much love and respect from my peers as I do at ASOS. They are very dedicated and focused to giving you good clothes.

The simple fact is, in my view, they (the puppet masters at ASOS) don’t understand the power of the full figured market on a global scale, yet. Their image is slim pretty young women, not fat pretty women and therein lies the difference between ASOS and a company such as Simply Be or Lane Bryant.

It’s like asking Porsche to promote a style that looks like a Jaguar. Both are beautiful cars but each have a specific look and target market and while Porche may incorporate some Jaguar features you will always have a Porsche looking like a Porsche. I hope that makes some sort of sense?

This is exactly what ASOS do, they take elements from main line but never go all out with changing the way they brand and promote on the whole.

Why is this? It’s because the UK (where ASOS is based) have not yet caught up with the US. The UK is a very small country and we are surrounded by magazines that simply want to show off ‘slim, slim’ and more ‘slim.’  Occasionally we have a flush of  plus love but it is more to do with trending rather than a constant perspective.

Summer is the worst time to be a fat Gal in the UK. Its ‘summer diet’ and ‘that bikini look’ overload. Not many of us can say in the UK that we are not affected by the media. Even me – for the first time in my fat adult life it has got to me this year. I mean terribly. I’ll explain more, further down.

Is it any wonder that a company that is based in this small ‘slim loving’ country targets the customers with the most sway? Not at all. That’s not to say there aren’t a lot of big people in the UK but its not anything like the US.

As you can see this was too long for a Facebook note but I’m very happy Monif brought it up. J

Never Say Never

Looking forward and with Curve’s continuing success you may find the size range expanded. You may ever find it expands to other items like shoes or possibly maternity. But that’s in the future and all we can do is to continue to support Curve and its team.

They really adore making these clothes for you. They don’t see why fat Gals shouldn’t look high fashion. They are pretty particular bunch of people who will not hesitate to demand several fits if an inside leg is not correct or the bust dart is one cm too far over from what it should be.

There have been things I’ve really loved but they’ve been cancelled because the team are not getting them perfect. Of course it’s a very true fit line and also one based on my shape (not all look like me LOL and you’ll note that if you’ve followed Curve from the beginning then the previous fit model was a slightly different shape to me) but surface to say they aim to please the majority. Judging by the activity on the Curve Facebook group they are pleasing a lot of people. I love them a lot.

But it’s Time to Say Goodbye to Curve

My friends, it is with a heavy heart I tell you that I will be leaving Curve soon. Plus my contract with my agency comes to an end next year. It has been an amazing journey with this team and with this brand and it’s with eyes filled with tears I write this. If I seem dramatic then it’s because it has been truly amazing. This was not an easy decision to make because those two days a week in fit sessions make me so happy. However on the whole I am not happy within myself or in my skin.

That’s right one of your poster girls is not happy. But we’ve been through this before right? You know I made a conscious effort to lose weight and get in shape last year. I dropped two dress sizes and then Curve came and I was excited but in hindsight I didn’t think it through. I didn’t think what a heavy strain on my mind it would be to never be able to change whilst in this job. Of course it makes sense I wouldn’t be a size 14 but in my mind I never thought as time went on I would get out of shape by doing this job. And I have.

I never realised that if a first time garment came in that was simply not cut right I’d have to go through the mind hell of thinking I had failed to comply with what has been asked of me. Every month (you know the time Gals) I bloat terribly. This can often cause me to gain a few cm on my stomach but reduce around my waist. This is bizarre and obviously the team are great with taking this into account but it’s still a head screw for me.

For the past few months I’ve found it very difficult to handle the fact I must stay the exact same size. Plus I’ve had to watch a family member very close to me gain and gain and now struggle to move. This person is active but as the years go by they are finding it harder and harder to lose the excess and keep active.

This could be me in 10 years time and I don’t want that. As I mentioned summer makes it worse because their is an overload of slim everything. Mostly for vanity and not really due to long term health. But still if you spend four hours a week looking in a mirror (as I have to in fit session) whilst also being in a place where super slim models are the norm to see walking the corridors you can see that plays some head games. Of course I wouldn’t feel so bad surrounded by people that looked like me as the norm.

I’m not saying I’m ugly – I’m just saying I don’t feel fantastic anymore. Not like I once did.

I like curves a lot. I don’t want to be a size 8 or even 10. My goal is to be back to a 14 (uk)

In the ‘Community’

This could be seen as conceding defeat against the machine of ‘slim is beautiful.’ I feel it’s just a personal decision of doing what I want with my body; just like you wish to be accepted for being fat (if you are). I think the bottom line is I don’t want to end up like the family member I speak of. I’m 35 nearly 36 and it’s time to make a huge life change and not be distracted by anything else.

You notice we are not all equal as plus either. In modelling I can never be booked for anything that showcases fashion. I’m stuck behind the scenes of fashion. I’ll leave you to ponder how that makes me feel.

I’ve had a good run as fat woman in the community who is known for many things, but in order for me to have more energy etc I need to make these drastic changes.

For the record I think ‘health at any size’ is a very misleading statement and we’d do well to define it better. You may not like hearing that but it’s true. I once was one of those people who said that, so I am guilty but over the last few months my eyes have been opened (once again.)

I always said I didn’t want to grow really old so screw it – let me stay fat. But over time and with the possibilities my new business has thrown up I realise I want long term health and I just want to walk into a store again and pick up a size 12/14 (UK).

I’ll never bash anyone who wants to stay as they are. That’s their choice.

To Evolve and Inspire

What’s so scary about this is that there are thousands of women who read my blog every month and love what I do but what’s scarier are the ones that have written to me when I was losing weight and said they wished they could do the same but feel that they would not be accepted if they did.

Ladies this is BS and we need to stop it. I cannot stress enough how deeply angered I am at the way some of you behave if someone is not ‘the right size.’ It throws the whole size acceptance thing out of the window. How can you expect to be accepted when you won’t accept others for their choices? If a slim woman wants to make and sell full figured clothes who are you to discredit her goal? That is just one example of what I’ve witnessed over the years.

There are ladies out there in the BBW community for instance who are hailed as goddesses and paid to be fat. But don’t believe the hype people. Many of them eventually resent it. Yep it’s money in the bank for them but when the party is over and they struggle to lose the weight they find it difficult and they also find it difficult to stay within the community they have built friendships in because of their new slimmer size.

This is not bitterness talking its fact and truth and if you read my blog you’ll know I give it in spades.

I will evolve and maybe I will inspire some along the way.

Looking Forward

So I just want to let you know that I will still be with Curve until they find a new fit model. Beyond that I will still be in contact with the team. As one team member has said, ‘I don’t know how we’re going to replace you?’ She wasn’t talking about the size issue she was talking about the connection I’ve helped make between lovers of the range, bloggers and the brand.

I have tried my very best to let you enjoy this journey with me and to understand how the process of making these clothes happens. I think I’ve done more than the PR team at ASOS have. I’m proud of that and I’m proud of each and every blogger who’s shared their pictures and write ups about the clothes.

Please don’t stop enjoying the range. The Facebook group will stay open so you can share things and let the team know how you feel and of course I will pop in and let you know if there is anything exciting happening if the team let me know.

The word on the ASOS street is they are reading blogs avidly with a view to having a Blogger’s day. It’s a rumour I hope comes true. The A/W collection is slowly coming in for fit and I’m just like WOW. Of course most of it I’ll be able to enjoy because these garments are coming to main line – but there are a few exclusives so enjoy them. And note, Curvettes that looking forward these exclusives and some other garments will be limited for exclusivity so don’t rely on them going in sale! J

I’m going to enjoy my new journey as a business coaching consultant (and occasional MUA) as well as keep this blog going with life, fashion and beauty news. And of course I’ll be updating you on my progression in weight loss and a healthier lifestyle for me. I may have to get the amazing Debra Mazda on board for some pep talks! J

Thank you to those who continue to support me and my life choices. My new mascot as you may have noticed by visiting my coaching site is a butterfly. I’ll leave you to ponder why it is so significant to me and my life path.

Be Happy,

V x

P.S I will let you all know when I’ve officially stopped being Curve’s fit model.

Find me here: facebook/ignitethescreen

New email vanessareece (at) gmail.com (please use this from now on and if you’ve sent me mail I have not replied to please send it again to this new address)

Fashion Picture courtesy of Asos.com

You may have heard of the beautiful Australian plus size model Laura Wells? If not let me give you some inside information that’s not in this interview.

1. She gives the best hugs. Warm, friendly and totally genuine.
2. The Asos Curve team love her – and so it would seem do many of the Curvettes that buy from Asos Curve
3. I nearly didn’t introduce myself to her when she was shooting one day at ASOS HQ. Why? Well, even professionals get star struck and all I could think was *heart pounding* ‘that’s one of my model idols sitting there minding her own business.’ I’m glad I double backed and said hello.

In fact Laura was such a sweetie she emailed me an hour or so after and said how nice it was to meet me and she agreed to do this interview.

It’s been a long time coming because Laura has been jet setting around the world and is currently back in Australia enjoying time with her family as well working her plus size model curves in various fashion shoots.

In this interview Laura Wells and I cover all the bases: – size acceptance, the fashion and size faux pas, her acceptance of herself and many other things.

Sit back and enjoy the girlie chit chat of two very different models with one hope in common – that plus size fashion lives on!

Hi Laura, it’s great to finally touch base with you as we always seem to miss one another when I’m at ASOS doing my fit sessions. How are you?

I’m really well! I’m back in my home country of Australia at the moment; working hard and staying up late to watch the world cup. It’s good to see all my family and friends again even though I have now escaped the London chill to come to home to Sydney winter!

But it’s hot now in London. We turned the heating on for you. Come back! ha ha!

So Laura, you are the face we see on the header when we click onto the Curve section of asos.com . You’re totally rocking that Hawaiian Cocktail Dress!

You have become a favourite with many of the customers who buy from Curve.
Your look and poise really showcases the clothes well. You seem to be a natural born model, but I read that this wasn’t your first choice of career.

How did you get started?

My sister who is a straight size model went to NYC to go see agents about 5 years ago. I went with her and got asked by a few scouts whether I was a plus size model. At that stage of my life I didn’t even know such a model existed and I really had no interest in modelling at all, that was my sisters department and I was busy at university and travelling at the time.

When I got back to Australia I got in contact with BGM models in Sydney, and my agent, Darrianne Donnelly signed my that day. My first job came two weeks later and since then I haven’t looked back.

You’ve always had killer Curves but have you always been confident in showing them off?

When I first starting modelling and at high school I was never really confident with my curves. I also thought of myself as a lot bigger than everyone else, especially my friends, I never really understood that curves were a blessing! Since modelling I have become a lot more aware of my body shape and finally take pride in the fact that I have a curvy body. I dress to show off my curves and am now no longer afraid to do so.

We’re seeing more plus size models getting press these days, but many of the plus size models are fit into standard criteria, do you feel at any point the size definitions will increase?

Just like straight sized models, plus size models too have a standard criteria to fit to. This criteria is different depending upon the country and market but I do think that the plus size criteria will increase as the demand for plus size market increases.  Plus size models and the industry have really only just begun and I believe that there is much more room for movement in the years to come. It is definitely exciting and I can’t wait to see what is in store for the plus size industry!

Just recently Australian Designers refused to use plus size models during fashion week. This caused quite a stir. What are your views on that?

In terms of plus size modelling and the clothing industry, Australia has quite a long way to go. The industry in Australia is picking up but seems to be behind Europe and the United States when coming to accept plus models and their role in society.

It was actually quite shocking to learn that this year’s fashion week shunned the plus size model as at last year’s Rosemount fashion week, eighteen plus size models from BGM models, including myself, took to the runway for the first time at Sydney fashion week and were very well received.

I thought the City Chic parade last year had marked the way for a plus size revolution in Australia but sadly it seems the fashion industry itself ignored the praise given by the general public and stayed on the one-eyed path of the straight size model.

Hopefully media attention from the refusal to use plus size girls will change a few attitudes and Australia can pick up where they left off from last year’s parade and hail the ever increasing love society has for the plus size girls!

You’ve been very successful as a plus size model but have you ever felt pressure to lose weight?  If so how have you handled that?

No I have never felt any pressure as a plus size model to lose weight. The only time I felt pressure to lose weight was when I was younger and that was mainly pressure I had put on myself to fit in and look like everyone else. If anything I have been asked to put on weight. I’m happy with my weight now. I am at a weight that is probably my natural weight.

I don’t fluctuate and it would actually be difficult for me to lose weight. If I was in a position where I had pressure on me to lose weight I would handle it by assessing my health. If I am within a healthy weight range and am happy with myself and am comfortable with how I feel there is no way I would attempt to lose weight.

Being happy and healthy, I believe, are two of the most important aspects in life and if you have balanced them well you shouldn’t feel pressure from anyone to change that.

You recently shared the catwalk with Crystal Renn for Sheego in Germany.  Crystal’s been the most talked about plus size model in the business recently. Was it nerve racking?

I don’t get nervous before parades, so it wasn’t nerve racking. But it was great meeting Crystal. She is so down-to-earth and easy going. We all had a great time and being in the presence of someone that is so well known and respected gives everyone else great positive energy.

Yes, I’ve heard she is a very sweet, down to earth person too, just like you.  I’ve always felt in my own modelling career that is an essential key to getting ahead. What do you think?

Everyone has their own personality and reacts to situations differently but I think being down -to-earth is a good quality to have, especially in such a hectic industry.

It is very easy to get wrapped up in the glitz and glamour but having a level head and being open minded really helps you assess the situation and bring you back to reality. It’s always important to be yourself but you have to brace yourself for rejection or you will never get ahead.

Laura let’s talk about your beauty routine as my site visitors here at vanessareece.com also love a bit of beauty chat. What beauty items can’t you live without when you’re travelling as a model?

Travelling definitely takes its toll on your skin so I always have a good moisturiser with me. I think I must look like a freak on the plane sometimes because I am constantly re-applying moisturiser to my face every hour, it’s like obsessive compulsive behaviour! But I know if I don’t do it my skin will break out and that’s not always the best when you jump straight off a 326 hour flight into a shoot!

I have a big supply of cleanser and a strong eye makeup remover on me at all times. Sometimes eye makeup remover can be a life saver, especially when you finish a shoot with crazy makeup and have to get onto public transport (yes we models often take public transport, none of this ‘private drivers’, ha-ha) A little bit of remover can be the difference between you getting a whole lot of strange looks on the tube!

I also carry a concealer/ highlighter pen with me; they are great for covering those unwanted blemishes and adding a bit of sparkle under the eye!!!

You are a super clever Gal. I read you have two degrees. That’s awesome. Do you feel when you change careers you’ll focus on using those in some way?

I finished doing a science degree and also a Law degree a couple of years ago and have taken up modelling full time as it is a career you can’t really put off till later in life, so I thought I would jump straight in and give it a go first.

When I decide to stop modelling, (I suppose that will be when the wrinkles are so large they can no longer retouch them out!!) I would like to pursue my passion of being an environmental scientist. I have a keen interest in the area and would like to make a difference no matter how big or small with regards to the environment and sustainability.

Do you have an exercise routine? I’m a gym and swim Gal myself. What about you?

I try to go to the gym 4-5 times a week and mix it up by doing different classes, but it has been really difficult this year as I have been travelling so much. So when I have been in London I try to walk to most places. I give myself enough time and get off the tube a couple of stops early then walk to my shoot or casting. It worked really well for me considering I couldn’t get to the gym.

I also play soccer and in the summer time I also swim a couple of times of week. I try to stay active and mix up my routine as I have a tendency to get a bit bored doing the same thing each week. By mixing up my exercise routine it keeps me motivated.

Laura we miss you lots already at ASOS! As you’ve said you’re in Australia at the moment. Are you working on something fabulous there and when are you coming back?

Yes I’m in Australia right now but will hopefully be back in London soon. I have a lot of good clients here in Australia and have to spread my schedule between Australia and London to fit everyone in. It can get tiring but I am having a lot of fun at the moment.  I have just finished doing a shoot with my sister for Cosmopolitan Magazine so it will be one to keep an eye out for in August.

What have been your favourite ASOS Curve pieces to model?

I love the Asos dresses. They colours are fantastic and they have something for everyone and every event. I also love Asos shoes. I am a shoe lover and they have some great pieces. I think I come away from every shoot wanting to take majority of the garments with me.

When I met you at ASOS not so long ago I have to say you have a really lovely energy about you. What’s your secret on maintaining an upbeat attitude as you seem to show on and off camera?

I think the way to keep an upbeat attitude is to get lots of sleep! You were lucky and meet me after a big nap, ha-ha. I think it just comes down to being happy with yourself and where you are in life. I am blessed to be fortunate enough to be in a career that I really enjoy working in and having a great friend and family support base to keep me going. Surrounding yourself with positive energy and focusing on the good things in life are the best ways to stay upbeat, that and a good dose of chocolate everyday!

Finally Laura if you had any key advice for any model no matter what her shape or size what would it be?

Be true to yourself. Love yourself and your body and show how proud you are of yourself through your work.  A good model exudes confidence in her and should be able to convey that to their audience whether it is in print or in person.

Pictures copyright of their respective owners.

If you’ve been following my ‘Get a Grip’ series and have been enjoying my knowledge and thoughts within it then here’s the place where we join together and take it to the next level.

I am really excited about this exstention to www.vanessareece.com because it’s going to be based on helping bloggers and non bloggers take the knowledge and expertise they share and take it to the next level. I’m also going to be addressing product selling if you have a product or service you wish to sell.

Knowledge = product / service = sales

I’ve set up a separate newsletter which many of you have already joined and each week I’ll be motivating, inspiring and sharing my knowledge for free on how you can take what you love to do and know lots about, and not only spread the word effectively but package it to sell as a product.

Now most of you share knowledge already for free in your blogs. Without realising it you are allowing your voices to be heard, passing your knowledge to others and gaining interest. But it doesn’t stop there. Oh no!

I realise with some people giving knowledge away for free sits well, but packaging and selling your knowledge doesn’t sit quite so well. I used to be the same, believe me. I thought my knowledge was only something that should be given for free because I worried it wasn’t worth any money at all. It took me a long time to wake up and realise that packaging my knowledge into a saleable product was not wrong. It was no different from me packaging my knowledge in beauty and delivering a service as a make-up artist or consultant and being paid for that.

As you know free does not pay the bills, or get a new item of clothing, a new beauty product or a download of your favourite music off iTunes. It all costs money.

Whilst I’ll always embrace the passing on of a certain degree of knowledge for free I also think at some point one must look at the bigger picture and realise not everyone wants to scout around websites looking for every little detail they need. Why not put your knowledge and the finer details of it into something people can just buy and save them time searching for? If you don’t someone else will.

If I turned around to you and said. ‘Hey I’d like to know how you are able to get sponsors for your website, free clothes or beauty products.’  Well you may think this information is precious because you worked super hard to get to a point where that was possible. If I then said, ‘I’d pay for a good ebook or audio CD where you explain exactly what you did and other useful links that helped you,’ would you be tempted? You know  if someone is willing to pay for a service or product it means they are aren’t playing.

I read lots of blogs, facebooks updates and tweets each week and I cannot understand why aside from affiliate marketing and paid site advertisements people do not package some of their key knowledge in a niche and sell it to others. I also see how new businesses who are selling tangible goods don’t utilise the power of social media in building their customer or prospective customer base.

On average I write 12 blog posts a week – that’s like 12 chapters of a book if you think about it. Or possibly a few hours that I could be paid to do guest speaking and demonstrations. The point is I love, love, love having this blog, but I also know I love being paid to share my advice and expertise.

There are lots of behind the scenes work that I do that doesn’t even get mentioned on here but is vital to this site progressing and getting my voice heard. This newsletter will put a lot of what I do behind the scenes into a format you can easily take on board and use yourselves.

Just recently I bought two very different books. One was about mind sets and the other was about make-up. Both authors have readily given their knowledge on these subjects for free elsewhere but they have also packaged it into something that someone interested in that niche of their work can pay for, own and refer to without going through a gazillion site pages to find.

I have done it myself via an eBook on modelling. I know the mistakes I made in setting that up and the successes will be useful to anyone who wants to share their knowledge to people who want to buy it, whether it be from ebooks, audio CD’s, or public speaking.

Knowledge = product / service = sales

Even if you don’t blog but are selling an item or a service the newsletters may just help you in targeting your products to the people who want it.

You each have a voice/skill in a  field you love. If you’re ready to embrace that and learn how to make it heard, seen, and purchased then join my free ‘Get a Grip’ newsletter.

If you’re unsure ask yourself why?

Do you feel you have no authority on the subject because you haven’t got the site hits others do?

Do you feel that no one would pay for the knowledge you have?

Do you feel embarrassed to charge for your knowledge?

Do you think your products or service don’t really need much more than a website and a few flyers to spread the word?

The list is endless as to all the reasons why you wouldn’t want to take your knowledge in your niche to the next level.

Yes, it takes time and motivation. But if you have your own website or blog and you regularly post what you think or know on any given subject that gains you visitors then you are on the right path.

If you have a product or service then you have the ability to get a lot more interest in it.

Each week in this newsletter I’m going to share with you tips and advice I’ve found work for me, and some that haven’t, but they may work for you. We are each individual and may not necessary attract the same sort of people to our niche. Conversely we may all attract the same group and this is where identifying a key element on a subject you know lots about can set you apart from another person talking about the same thing.

Once again, look how many fashion and beauty books there are on the market. Look at how many fashion houses there are out there. Each one is delivering key products but they all have their own styles of delivery which attract different people.

Subjects or Objects.

If you know a subject well and enjoy discussing it then there are ways to mold it in your own way that would be appealing for someone to invest money in it and buy that knowledge.

If you supply a service like photography or styling, or maybe make clothes or accessories then your delivery of how you showcase your products is equally as important.

I’ve worked in retail and sales on and off for over ten years and what I know is this – hard sell leads to resentment from your buyer. The more personal approach leads to longevity of custom. Your service or item can look beautiful but are you really connecting with the right people who will not only buy it but also let others know how good it is?

The same goes for blogging. Who reads your site? Do they tell others about it? What about people who aren’t in your social media circle? How have they found your blog? Are you well versed in your area of blogging? The list goes on.

Our Journey

I didn’t come to this amazing ‘A-ha’ moment on my own. Oh no, I have found some amazing sites that I’ll share with you on each newsletter, plus give a shout out to people who have given me amazing advice about how best to share my knowledge and products and make money from them.

Once we start this journey within my newsletter I’m going to be asking for feedback and if anyone has any success stories then share them. I’ll share it in the newsletter so people can check out your site, product and service.

The reasons why I’m starting this new journey (or re-starting it I should say) is because I truly believe that we need to share success as we go. This will be explained in the newsletter.

I’ll also encourage you to think outside your normal mindset to make yourself more comfortable with your worth. There is a way of telling people you have something amazing to offer and ways that don’t always work in a certain niches.

You will see over the next month or so I will begin to place things on my site that are worth something to someone. I will share how I’m doing it, how I’m getting along and how I’m practically and theoretically dealing with my new adventures. All these things as well as juggle parenthood, family, fixed work obligations – the whole nine yards.

Over time the newsletter will also contain personal video links, podcasts and picture tutorials that will help you.

But why are you giving this newsletter with all your knowledge in for free, V?

Let me explain. I’d like to build this mailing list up and help people to accomplish things they’ve been told or thought for so long they couldn’t. I ask that if you learn something during the progression of the newsletter you simply share the link with someone who you feel would also be interested. They too can sign up, learn, share and do!

Not all my niche knowledge (I have a lot of niches) will be in these newsletters but a good fair amount to get you motivated and start your journey will be. You don’t have to search a million sites to find out what I can tell you in weekly newsletters. Plus, I’ve learned over time that baby steps are better than big ones. I want you to be able to consume the information in bite size pieces so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Your success inspires and motivates me even more – which is a win win situation for us all.  I want to be able to say you know what, this person has taken my knowledge and is using it – look what they can do.

Take a look at a recent blog post by someone my words have helped motivate. I don’t know this lovely young lady, but she has found use from what I’ve talked about so far and I thank her for sharing that on her website. Please take a look.

http://catsandchocolate.wordpress.com/2010/05/27/food-for-thought/

So now click here and fill in the form, then confirm your email address when you get the confirmation email. Remember this has nothing to do with my regular monthly blog newsletter. This is separate and only for people who now feel they want to learn more about taking their niche to the next level. And if you’re struggling to identify your niche still join up because I’ll be talking about that too. Even if you’re very successful and have a product or blog which does well I still would encourage you to join, because remember – even I am a customer. The customer’s perspective is extremely useful to business owners!

Look forward to styling your minds!

V x

Click here to join the ‘Get a Grip’ newsletter

Read the ‘Get a Grip’ Series

1. Get a Grip!
2. Are You Taking a Grip of Knowledge?
3. OOOH You Make Me Wanna Shout!

Recent comments about this series. Thanks so much V x

Lauren10/05/28 16:10

This is a great post, Vanessa! I’ve read it all but probably not digested it yet. It’s a lot of food for thought as I seem to be struggling professionally – I’ve been trying to get a career in media for the past ten years, but it’s very difficult to stay afloat and as a result I feel I have no core knowledge on anything specifc…

Sorry, enough rambling about my life! It’s definitely a great post and I look forward to the next!  xx

jo10/05/26 19:13

you speak so much sense xx

this was seriously awesome.

the homework is going to take some time for me (i’ve been in a weird place lately) but i’m so glad you shared this.

Nomonde10/05/28 23:32

I loved this blog!! Not just because I was mentioned LOL! incredibly insightful and warm – thank you *huge hugz*

And I’m good at writing, loving people and making people happy. I’m growing into my voice of command – I think its a journey that pretty much teaches us something at every turn.

Additional artwork flower motif by ClaraXY

It’s always the British way to add a little humour to a cause if we can. This is a video from 100percentpeople.com who are currently asking for signatures support for their campaign for acceptance of all sizes in the fashion industry.
The campaign is called ‘Real Bodies Unite’ and it basically means all bodies – all shapes and sizes – uniting to get the fashion industry to represent everyone….
We have seen the influx of fashion related size acceptance in Europe of using plus size / fuller figured models like Crystal Renn (whom some claim should not be hailed as plus-size any more since her weight loss) however, major fashion retailers in Europe and the States, still for the most part, refuse to use models that are suitable for the clothing they are selling to the consumer. Worse still some have been known to put slimmer models in body suits to replicate a larger person.

Things may change though and campaigns like this give a voice to the cause.

I have signed – have you? Please use the links on this post to do so.

Now enjoy the video (you may want to turn up the sounds or use headphones as the sound was a little low for me to hear). I thought it was an interesting little skit (based on the comedy skit – ‘I Know My Place’ with The Two Ronnie’s and John Cleese. Classic!)

Curvy Divas (and Princes),

I would love for you all to go visit my friends over at 100percentpeople.com
I mentioned their petition before and I know you are all like, ‘oh no V – not another bloody petition.’ But listen, if we didn’t have these things no one would really give a hoot what we fuller figured Divas and Princes thought about many topics. We move mountains when we unite!

http://100percentpeople.com/specials/real-bodies-unite-campaign/

The fashion industry is slowly starting to listen. Some designers have used models that don’t look super skinny in recent shows – keeping it real. I applaud them, but they’re a minority.

I’m not suggesting on the next Chanel fashion show they have me and Velvet strut down the catwalk lol (although Gaultier did used Velvet once – bless him) but terribly thin women showcasing clothes puts so much pressure on women and young girls, in my opinion.

If you’re naturally slim that’s cool beans but when you live the day on a lettuce leaf and a bottle of water just to conform to in imaginary notion that all women can only be truly demure, sexually appealing and fashionable then there is something not quite right.

We are often guided by fashion and images..we need to have balance.

http://100percentpeople.com/specials/real-bodies-unite-campaign/

It takes two mins to read and sign.

I don’t want people to be defeatist please, and can some of you who have a huge facebook and twitter following please get involved? There may be other campaigns like this but is signing more than one a bad thing?

Can other Full figured Blogging beauties (and Princes – Glen, I’m talking to you hehe) please twitter, facebook and add to your sites. Start discussions if you like, the more we discuss the more we learn.

I will add a perm link later to this site.

Thanks my lovelies,

Vx

Gemini Magazine, spring issue, is now out and available online for all to read, it’s free. It’s so jam packed it’s like getting Vogue! I’m honored to be in the same issue as Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee, Mo’Nique as well some other great, creative and talented people.

If you’re desperate to get your skin in tip top shape for summer then please follow the link and read an easy-to-follow how to. Page 8/9.

Everything in this new issue is HOT! I’m loving the expansion of the fashion and events as well as the contributor articles. It keeps getting better.

Thank you to the folks at Gemini Magazine continuing to be diverse and celebrating the love of curves.

I would love it if all my readers would share this article on twitter/facebook/myspace and also subscribe to Gemini Magazine. It’s free and this won’t be the last time you’ll see me in there.

V x

Vanessa Reece

P.S Do you think I have a pixie face in the exclusive snap shot that is featured in my article? Hahah. Love it!! Pixie V.

More links:

Gemini Twitter

Gemini Facebook

Follow V on twitter

Follow V on Facebook

It’s taken a minute to sign but it may change the way we have fashion delivered to us.

100 Percent People have introduced a campaign to get 10,000 signatures for there petition which is going to be sent to fashion houses to prove to them that real woman want to see more realistic body representation in fashion.

I would ask all of my visitors to put this logo on their website, facebook, myspace and blog and to sign the petition as well as get others to sign it as well. This isn’t just about plus-size empowerment but empowerment over what fashion dictates is the norm. Everyone should get involved.

I’ve just signed it now.  Here’s the link.

http://100percentpeople.com/specials/real-bodies-unite-campaign/

No matter where you are in the world, shape or size – get signing and let’s get those 10,000 signatures they need in order to make a change.

Good Karmaz,

V x

Image: 100 percent people.

I’m about to be stoned by most of the plus-size community as fragmented as it is.

I’ll say it loud and in caps WHO THE HELL THOUGHT OF THIS RIDICULOUS AD?

Have you lot lost your minds over there in the States. Do you seriously think this is the answer to PETA’s ridiculous ’Lose The Blubber Campaign‘.  (Which by the way was done and dusted months ago)

Just to show I’m fair I’ll give you the link to this nonsense. Here you go –  http://www.facebook.com/manikmag

Now while this picture may be beautifully shot with a lovely model to boot it does not represent how I feel about the whole PETA incident. It to me does not take into account all the plus-size anti-fur men and women of the world (who were also insulted by PETA’s ad). This is also in very poor taste.

I personally have a huge issue with fur but only because I feel there are perfectly good alternatives to keeping warm (which is why we originally needed to wear fur as humans). I believe we need meat in our diets but I respect the views of those that don’t feel that way. You may as well have shot this model batting a baby seal. I mean what was Manik Magazine thinking? Oh I said that twice now – but really, I’m in shock.

I don’t respect this ridiculous attempt to jump on the publicity band wagon with a picture of a fat chick dripping in fur with the words, ‘ I’d Rather Go Naked, Trimmed in Fur’.  I nearly spat my tea out when I read that. If my eyeballs rolled any further to the back of my head they’d stick there forever more.

PETA are sitting their rubbing their hands together because they have ammunition now to launch another ‘sarcastic’ attack. I can see it now; the ad would read, ‘ONLY FAT CHICKS WEAR FUR.’

Way to go Manik Mag – you sure know how to start the crap up all over again. Let me tell you; PETA don’t give  a hoot about you, me or anyone else but themselves and their agenda. The plus-size community won a small victory in my opinion with no loss to life, so to speak. PETA said sorry, took down the offending ad and we all went on our merry way safe in the knowledge we could communicate with this huge organization with a positive outcome.

Of course we know they weren’t really that sorry and they will continue to take a little dig here and there at fatties. We are easy targets after all, but really, did we need to stoop this low to attack them back?

We didn’t and I’m prepared to take an arse kicking to say it out loud – the above ad sucks worse that the suckiest suck that ever sucked.

I don’t know who the heck is in charge of the magazine but please see sense – this is not the way to win over people in the plus-size loving stakes. You have to be smart enough to know that?

I also can’t believe how many well known figures in the plus-size community (in the States) have actually signed their names next to this in support. With all due respect – ‘have you actually stopped to think for a second?’
It’s really easy when the plus-size community gets its panties in a bunch and fights together for a cause – but do half of you have a clue what you’re fighting for?

If it’s to be taken seriously with equality to boot – supporting this will not get you that. What it will do is make people think the fat people are petty and ugly. Once again – way to go.

This is why I really am getting sick of the plus-size community click-i-ness. One braincell between a few hundred of you it seems. Oh bite me.  Here’s an idea – for once stand up for what YOU believe in, not what will keep you in the fat click.

I may be losing weight but thankfully I’m not losing my mind. Whatever size I am I will know my own mind and support acceptance. I will never accept starting tit-for-tat drama in the name of all fat people.

I dare and I double dare you all! Be liberated enough to stay away from supporting nonsense that does nothing to forward acceptance (of any kind).

The stones are over there. I’ll be waiting, naked,  dripping in chocolate.  Yum!