Today we’d like to introduce you to Yasmine Payton

Hi Yasmine, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

I started off as a blogger in 2015 because a friend suggested it. He told me, “You always have a lot to say, and I think you should write it in a blog because what you have to say is really valid.” I was part of a student organization on campus called Active Minds, where we discussed topics of concern and held general interest meetings for people to express ideas. These discussions often inspired my blogging.

My interest in fashion began at the High School of Fashion Industries, likely influenced by shows like “That’s So Raven,” where the main character designed her own clothes. I initially wanted to be a fashion designer but changed my major several times in college before settling on Public Communication. This major solidified my love for writing and speaking, and I continued blogging about important topics during that time.

In my early 20s, I enjoyed going out with friends and creating a fun atmosphere. My ability to set the vibe led to hosting events, and my friends and family often asked for my advice on what to wear. With my background in fashion, knowledge of fabrics, and understanding of seasonal styles and color pairing, people trusted my opinion. I thoroughly enjoy getting dressed up and going out, which naturally led to hosting and discussing upcoming events.

I eventually rebranded and took a break from blogging to focus on coaching aspiring models. I knew many young aspiring models and wanted to help them avoid the pitfalls of the industry, like taking risky photos or spending too much on portfolios. I value self-sufficiency because it makes one a commodity in the industry. As a teacher, I’m skilled at presenting information to different learners, so I found a way to combine all my talents and passions into my brand.

Now, my brand focuses on offering styling services, model coaching, pageant services, wardrobe consulting, hosting, and speaking at events.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

It hasn’t been an easy road because you’re always harder on yourself than anyone else can be. You constantly feel like there’s so much more you could be doing. Finding a way to utilize all my talents, making it all make sense, and finding time to do everything has been a challenge. Now, being a mom, my calendar and days look a lot different, so I’ve also had to learn to be flexible.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

I specialize in wardrobe consulting and styling, event hosting, speaking and presentations on social media branding, African-American history, and women’s empowerment, as well as coaching and pageant coaching. What sets me apart is the time I take to personalize everything. I believe there is a specific way to do things for different people. This aligns with my experience as a teacher, where I differentiate the way I present information to my students. I apply this approach from my career to my creative side.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?

What matters most to me are clarity, organization, and authenticity. Life has so many moving parts, and it’s often hard for people to see what’s actually going on when they’re in the midst of it. Being able to step back, help people organize, put things into perspective, and visualize their goals is something that’s really important to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bio.site/CallmePayton
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/callme.payton/

Image Credits

Lavita Payton
Isaiah Blake
Jasmine Ramnarine