Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaia Honey.
Hi Jaia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started out just like a lot of people—an aspiring model here in Michigan, looking for gigs and trying to turn it into something real. At the time, I really believed I was getting my foot in the door. But I quickly ran into some pushback. I was told that because of how I expressed myself—my nails, my makeup—the fashion world wouldn’t accept a flamboyant man. And as a 20-year-old with big dreams of hitting the runway, that stuck with me. It made me question things, but it also made me think… how can I change this?
I didn’t quit, but I’ll be honest—I didn’t fully know what direction to take either. Then a casting call popped up for a fashion show where Saucy Santana was hosting and performing. Seeing someone who looked like me, carried themselves like me, and was thriving in that space—it meant everything. I knew I had to go.
I showed up excited and nervous, but I got casted, and that moment really changed things for me. It opened the door to meeting incredible people—some of whom are still in my life today and have played a huge role in my journey. Being in that environment helped me realize that there was space for the LGBTQ+ community in fashion here in Michigan—but I still felt like more could be done.
That’s really where my purpose started to take shape. I created Strut Honey as a platform where anyone—no matter their race, gender, sexual orientation, age, or ability—can feel seen and celebrated on the runway.
Giving back has always been important to me too. Cancer research is something very personal, so I created the Winter Wonderland Charity Benefit Fashion Show in partnership with Cherry Monkeys Brand to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It’s an annual event where families can share their stories and we raise awareness and support for kids battling cancer.
We’ve also done some really fun and creative things, like our Willy Wonka-inspired fashion festival, where kids got to walk the runway and just be part of something magical. And one of my favorite moments has been producing the fashion show at Motor City Pride—being part of such a big and meaningful event in Detroit and getting to go back again this year is huge.
At this point, we’ve worked with over 700 models of all ages, which is honestly something I’m really proud of. Strut Honey has grown into more than just fashion shows—we do content days with affordable photoshoots, fashion award ceremonies, and runway classes to help people build confidence and skills.
For me, it all comes back to creating the space I wish I had when I started—and making sure the next person doesn’t feel like they have to change who they are to be seen.
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?
The road to Strut Honey wasn’t easy—it was built on trial, error, and a commitment to learning every step of the way. What started as a vision turned into a movement, producing over 15 fashion shows in just four years.
I never expected it to be easy. In fact, if everything came effortlessly, there would be no room for growth. Every challenge taught me something—how to stay disciplined, how to work under pressure, and how to pause before making major decisions. I’ve learned the importance of timing, structure, and coordination in bringing a vision to life.
Producing fashion shows goes far beyond what people see on the runway. It requires building a full production from the ground up—casting models, developing a team, organizing logistics, and ensuring every detail aligns with the vision. It’s demanding, but it’s also where passion meets purpose.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a full-time fashion show producer and runway model, my life is both exciting and very busy. One of my biggest challenges is managing my time, because there are so many moving parts to what I do.
As a runway model, one of my proudest moments was walking in New York Fashion Week with Flying Solo and being published in Elle Magazine. As someone representing Michigan, that meant a lot to me because it showed models from Detroit and my community that opportunities like that are possible with hard work and dedication.
I’m really passionate about giving back and helping others grow. As a fashion show producer, I’m proud of how much my shows have evolved over time. We’ve grown in so many ways, and we focus heavily on the experience—not just for the audience, but for the models as well. We provide things like hair and makeup, and even self-care services like facials or massages when possible, because I want every model to feel confident, comfortable, and valued.
My goal is to create a space where models can step away from everyday challenges and feel special when they’re part of Strut Honey. At the same time, I aim to give designers a unique experience by not only showcasing their work on the runway, but also creating opportunities like post-show shopping events and professional photoshoots to help grow their brand.
A lot of what I do happens behind the scenes. I develop concepts, handle marketing, create flyers, connect with local businesses, send out invitations, and make sure every detail is organized—from the host’s cue cards to the DJ’s setlist. It’s a very detail-oriented job that takes a lot of time and effort, but it’s all worth it when we produce a sold-out show for hundreds of guests.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
This summer, Strut Honey is taking over with the House of Honey Tour—a powerful fashion tour celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, uniqueness, and self-expression.
Starting this June… get ready.
Be the change you want to see. Lead with purpose, inspire others to Strut! dreams are possible when we lift each other up.
– Jaia Honey
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/struthoney
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjaiahoney
- Other: https://www.kingaproductions.com/event-details/house-of-honey-fashion-show
