Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Gracey Byerlein . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Gracey , appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I didn’t really know, after a traumatic childhood and being bullied out of high school I had everything ripped away from me. I didn’t even feel like myself anymore. I didn’t know I wanted to be a model until the opportunity arose..that opportunity was eye opening. After that experience I wanted to share it with the world, what I discovered was healing, and I felt like in a way I could help the people who felt the way I’d did. I started my Facebook page January 25th 2021 and things took off from there..
Now I’m 21 years old I’ve been modeling for over 4 years I’m Happy, healing, successful and helping 100’s of women all over the world. By simply standing for a change. Growing up I wanted to be a first responder but plans never stay the same and things changed for the better. I do truly believe I crossed paths for a reason and things changed for a reason..and I’m doing what I do for a reason.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello, my name is Gracey Byerlein better known as “IAMHERMODELING” I am a model, artist, Body positivity advocate and mental health advocate from North Michigan.
To me modeling is alot more than just sitting in front of a camera and looking beautiful.
It’s art, expression, ideas, feelings and words made into this beautiful image that speaks to you. I got into the industry shortly after I turned 16. It wasn’t planned but the opportunity basically met me at my front door. After having my confidence, hope and happiness ripped from me I thought I’d give it a try. After receiving the photos back it was a different feeling, a weight lifted off my shoulders. It’s almost like I’d never seen that person before, she wasn’t the girl I saw in the mirror or the girl everyone described. I saw ME! a beautiful, intelligent, bright eyed, blonde hair beauty. After posting my work online I have gained a following and have received many messages and comments from women saying I have encouraged them or helped them in some way. By spreading love and being myself. I am a 21 year old plus size woman and I embrace my body for what it is and people love it.
I have been featured many times for my Body positivity events/movements. That includes my local news paper. Even the Senator of Michigan Curt S. Vanderwall picked up the story and sent us a very encouraging letter.
I am most proud of what I’ve created for myself. And the woman around me. Years ago I was so unhappy, on and off medication, very depressed and I feel like modeling has opened so many doors for me it has provided such a reassuring light for me I can’t explain it. I think something that sets me apart from others is. I’m very open, honest, kind and just very connected with myself and the earth. I am a very high spirited woman. I’m wise, selfless and I will help anyone and anything I can if I can. I’m far from selfish and I wear my heart on my sleeve no matter how many times people have failed me. I will continue to spread and show love to everyone..
I was sent here to help people..
The main things I want my fans, followers, supporters and family to know about me is every waking day. I strive to become a Better version of myself. There’s nothing I’ve ever wanted more on this earth than to break those chains and be the change. I want to make a difference..
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I knew coming into this industry wasn’t gonna be easy. I’m not “society’s” idea of beautiful. But I also came into this industry with a heart of steel. I’ve had so so many key board warriors or random people I’ve never even met before try to absolutely destroy everything I’ve ever created for myself. Why?! Because they were miserable..but they weren’t the first and they dang sure won’t be the last! I get a lot of hate. It’s the fuel that feeds the fire, it inspires me to keep going. Because if you don’t have haters..you aren’t doing it right !! I want to be known for my art and beauty not a nasty attitude. I won’t respond to hate or let it get it me. I just keep going and you should too..!!
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
I want to change society’s distorted idea of beauty, I want size inclusive brands, I want to create art, and make a difference in fashion. I mean come on…everyday we are pressured to change. Try this new diet, this new pill, oh HEY, another meal plan. “Starve yourself” “if your over 180 your fat” “your skin has to look brand new” “your hair has to be long” “your nails have to be long” this and that. The world is hard enough. So many women’s especially the younger generation is pressured to wear makeup and do their nails or lose weight because they are pressured to. The world is hard enough at the end of the day we deserve to love ourselves no matter who we are..
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_iamhermodeling_?igsh=MWRyc3JuMTgybDl1MQ==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graceisthenextopmodel?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@iamhermodeling7715?si=nkxYf78v7-BpzSZk
- Other: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamhermodeling?_t=8kdL3nVU0w2&_r=1
Image Credits
Nicole niles photography Smf photolishous photos