Kicking off our collaboration with Southern California based modeling agency No Ties, we have one of their leading icons – Bryana Holly.  No Ties has gained respect in the industry for their board of influencers and social media stars. Starting off our series with Bryana is a no-brainer. We became curious about Bryana through her cult like following and mysterious online persona and needed to learn more about her.

Photographer/interviewer: Lauren Engel
MUA: Beauty by Romero
Wardrobe: Andree Ciccarelli
Location: Waldorf Hotel NYC

Tell us about your upbringing
I was born and raised in Orange County, CA so a lot of time was spent at the beach in the water. We didn’t have a lot of money growing up but my parents always kept me busy, I wanted to try everything as a child. My mother was supportive in anything I set my mind to- she took me to singing, dance, piano, and guitar lessons. I spent a ton of time outdoors as a kid as well, riding a bike or some sort of physical activity. My father used to take my places to fish, taught me to play basketball, baseball, etc.

Your parents seem to have brought you up well-rounded! What careers do they have/industry the work in? What is their opinion on you modeling? Have they always been supportive?
My dad works at Boeing, and my mom at the school district. At first my parents were skeptical of the modeling world- wanted me to do the whole college route. I will probably go back to school one day, but they are very supportive of me no matter what.

How were you like in high school?
In high school I was very shy, I still am. The beginning of high school was hard, girls were really mean to me. I remember them leaving horrible notes in my locker or shouting things at me when my parents picked me up from school. It’s part of the whole growing up thing to deal with bullies.. but I’m such a lover and never a fighter or aggressor, I tried to avoid all drama or confrontation by keeping to myself. I enjoyed classes and learning, but wasn’t into social activities much.

How did you get into modeling? Was it always something that you wanted to get into?
I was scouted by my first agency, No Ties when I was beginning my first year of college. It gave me the opportunity to meet and work with so many creative people, along with the chance to travel and explore new places I wouldn’t have otherwise. I feel blessed every day for the chances I’ve been given.

“You’ve got to use your power for good. Social media is a crazy thing, I’m still learning how to use it how I want.”

How did your agency No Ties scout you? Were you thinking of modeling before then?
No Ties saw some pictures of me and got in contact with me through a friend. I went in to meet them and decide to sign on the spot.

You have an almost cult like following, what’s the biggest insight you’ve gained from having this much power? What are your thoughts on social media? Are you able to tell us why you decided to disable your instagram for a few days?
You’ve got to use your power for good. Social media is a crazy thing, I’m still learning how to use it how I want. I disabled my Instagram because I simply needed a break, sometimes you just need time for yourself.

What interests do you have outside of modeling?
When I’m not working, I love to be outdoors. I enjoy fresh air and sunshine.. being in the ocean or hiking, etc. I enjoy traveling and exploring as much of the world as I can when I have time off. I’m a bit of a book worm as well, I love reading and learning.. anything that expands my mind.

Do you see yourself getting into acting?
Acting is something I would like to pursue more of. I’ve done a bit here and there, but like I said..I’m very shy so it feels to be bit of a challenge for me. I’m always up for a challenge though.. maybe you’ll see more of me in acting in the future..

What is your perception on real love?
Real love.. when you know, you know.