We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Annabelle Hedges. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Annabelle below.
Annabelle, appreciate you joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
One risk that I would say was almost life-changing was doing my first-ever solo. I was about 11 or 12 when I started working on it for the competition season. I can just remember how nervous I was to mess up my first-ever solo, but I had a crowd of people cheering for me and supporting me, with my mom in the front row, of course. I can just remember the minutes leading up to walking onto that stage for the first time, my trio partners both by my side backstage. I ran my solo in my head, what seemed like, 50 times. I think my biggest fear was going out there and forgetting, or even worse, disappointing all my friends and family. When it was time to go on, I turned to Layla and Reese, my trio partners, and, I can remember the words to this day, they said, “You’ve got this.” I walked onto the stage and put it all out there, and I remember seeing my mom right up front screaming louder than anyone. After that one moment on stage, all by myself, I gained so much confidence, and probably would never be who I am today. I don’t remember exactly how I did awards-wise, but I honestly think I could’ve cared less; all I knew was that it felt amazing to me, and in the end, that’s all that matters.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Annabelle Hedges. I live in a very small town in southeast Iowa, and I have danced for over 6 years competitively. I just recently started my journey of modeling in August of 2024. Dance has always been a major part of my life. I started classes when I was around 3, so I definitely know what it means to be a part of the arts industry, but I’ve always had a pull towards the fashion industry. Over the last 2 years, I have gone back and forth about pursuing that urge. Then, my mom’s best friend, Lyndsey, got us in touch with her sister-in-law who owns BELLA Magazine. From there, we set up a meeting in New York, and things blasted off so quickly. She got me introduced to brands, set up photo shoots and modeling lessons, and even started to prepare for NYFW. It was all so much at one time. My mom was right by my side, making sure that I was okay each step of the way. Fast forward to today, I have met so many amazing people and continue making headway in my modeling career. From swimsuits to jeans, I have done it all, with not only style but a small-town accent. My core values are straight from the Midwest, and with everything I do, I always think back to my hometown. I never forget my roots, keeping the small-town values of kindness, respect, and family with me. I think that’s what sets me apart from others. I not only have passion and drive but the ability to dream big. I never would’ve thought taking one step could bring my big-city dreams to life. I am so grateful for the people who have helped me get to the place I am in today, especially my family, who have been my biggest supporters since the beginning.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
My story is different from the rest. I don’t come from the big city, and none of my family is well known in the industry. I grew up with dirt roads and livestock, and that’s where my resilience comes from. I grew up on a farm where when you start a project, no matter how hard, you finish it. Modeling and dance have added onto that passion. My resilience comes from being able to rise above hate and frustration to find love and peace. Without my mom and dad who taught me to find the light in the darkest of times, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and for that I appreciate them more than they know.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
In my view, I have seen many schools start to cut down, or even completely eliminate their arts departments. Without the resources to properly harness a gift like dancing, singing, painting, etc., kids aren’t able to reach their full potential before entering society. If we push for schools to get more involved in their arts programs, then not only will students be more involved in their skill set, they will also be able to get proper training for their field. In today’s society, it’s so hard to get recognition, especially without proper training, so if schools don’t take the extra step and offer more opportunities, they are holding back students from reaching for their dreams. It’s important to provide these opportunities to students because not everyone is as lucky as I am, but inputting these resources could help students get to the top quicker.
Contact Info:
- Website: AnnabelleHedges.com
- Instagram: @anna.bellehedges
- Facebook: @annabellehedges
Image Credits
Brandon Parker/BELLA Media + Co.