Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tiffany Cole. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Tiffany, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I’ve been modeling for 15 years and I’ve trained hundreds of models working with an organization I was involved with in college. After having a few viral videos and traveling across country modeling, I’ve received numerous inboxes/messages from women and men all over asking me to train or teach them how to walk . At the height of my career, it makes sense for me to step into that role of teaching and helping others become exactly what I am. I created a class entitled Category Runway that has different packages based on all knowledge and experience I have in the modeling industry. I offer in person and virtual options to cater to people all over the world. I teach everyone , but I do cater to plus size . We have it 10x harder and don’t get as many opportunities based on our size. So I have certain techniques and tactics to help build confidence and create undeniable talent. Just so excited to be a difference maker and help other be bold and follow their dreams.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I began modeling at the age of 18 in college. I am a founding member of the organization , Confident Couture, at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee.

I’m a trans woman. When I began modeling I started as male and then I began to transition where I taught myself how to be comfortable and walk in heels . Worked day and night perfecting my technique and craft and began to stand out.

Category Runway offers 3 different packages based on where models are in their career. A beginners, advanced, and expert. My flyer explains in detail what those packages entail.

I’m most proud of being authentic. I’m living proof of following your dreams no matter what rules were made. Some rules are meant to be broken , and things can change . Me being my authentic self and my talent has gotten me in rooms that were never open for girls like me.

“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations. “ -Mae C. Jemison

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Being present. Show up for yourself and your business. I’m still modeling so that shows hey I’m still out here. But also, clips and representation of me walking with and training others. Lastly, testimonials. People who share how it is work with me and my business.

I’m involved with several events as well where I’m over training models for the fashion production.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

When Covid hit back in 2020 and they shut the world down, my job of 6 years sent us home. After 6 months they decide to let me and a few others go. 2 weeks before that I launched a plus size online boutique that kept me afloat. My 9-5 funded my business. I had to close my business and become an essential worker to take care of myself. Prayed day and night, and God reminded me of the talents I already had and how to capitalize all that . I had private coachings training models and then the world began to open back to where I could help full time and then a position was created for me to relocate to Dallas , Texas and the rest is HERstory.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xfashion_forward?igsh=MWxidzEzcGU1emFudA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: Tiffany M. Cole

Image Credits
Elijah Franklin (@lijah.malik), Jennifer Mitchell Durst (@jenniferdurstphotographer), The Model Experience (@themodelexperience), @capture26_photos