Rising Stars: Meet Ariel Morgan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Morgan. 

Hi Ariel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I am originally born and raised in Delaware. As a young teen, I would go shopping and pay my younger brother, Delaine, to take pictures of me. When we moved to Michigan in 2010, I made some friends. These friends happened to be photographers and needed people to do test shoots with. I became that model for them. I loved it! I really put in my spirit to indulge and learn more about modelling. 

I started out doing local runway shows in the Detroit and Ypsilanti area. That helped me build my portfolio and my confidence in modeling. The I started scouting the internet looking for opportunities to network, be a part of projects and continue to build up my resume. 

After gaining the knowledge and confidence, I submitted for a local agency in Michigan and was unsuccessful. However, that did not discourage me, nor the many other people who told me I couldn’t be a model. I was not the standard height and weight for a model but SOOOO WHAT! I was not about to give up, it did wound me, but it didn’t stop me. 

I then became a brand ambassador for WARDROBE, by Dara W. Out of all the no’s I have heard she was the one yes! I needed. I did runway shows with her, photoshoots, and pop-up shop. Dara is a pivotal woman in why I am who I am today in this model business. She put me on her website, all over the business Instagram, and fliers. She did not even know she was helping me say yes to my dreams.at the time, a young mother a chance! I love her and thank her tremendously for the many opportunities she has blessed me with! Not to mention she kept me fly! 

At this point, I felt it was time to book some professional headshots with Tyler on nytdesign.com, They came out amazing, and I literally blew up after that! I resubmitted to the agency again with these bomb headshots, and I was signed! It didn’t take long after that to get booked. My first booking was a video shoot with Kevin Gates for his song “discussions.” I played the role of a therapist, so fun and my first taste of the official set life. Then shortly after I booked my first commercial with Biggby coffee. God has been blessing me and blowing my mind ever since. I worked with so many brands Ford, Homedics, Whirlpoop, Covid4real, MGM, and MANY MANY more. Thank You Jesus. 

In 2019 right before Covid hit, I had the opportunity to travel to Paris and walk in Fashion Week! I did not come to play! I walked for five designers, and the feeling was unexplainable. Funny story, during tryouts, I was given a garment by slouchyz, a high fashion brand based in Dubai, to model. When I put the garment on, I knew I was not skilled enough to walk in this garment. The garment was long and very narrow at the bottom–I had a semi-long stride. Now keep in mind the room was full of designers, models, and media. We were rehearsing as if it was show day. I tried to hide off to the side and practice, and well, I could not adjust in time. It was my time to shine and I completely bombed, it was painfully horrible. I was tripping over my feet, trying to be professional and cute– all eyes on me, and I felt the judgment as I ungracefully tripped down and back on this runway. It was painful and humiliating– but humbling. I just knew it was over for me, I would have been lucky to get one designer after that novice walk. I changed back into my clothes sat for a while, and reflected. I was disappointed in myself and felt a tugging in my spirit to not give up. I went to the bathroom and literally prayed! God didn’t get me to Paris Fashion Week to tank like that, and I trust in him. I said OKAY God, please allow me another chance. I got myself together and went to the designer. I said, “Your design is beautiful, and I lacked the skillset to properly adjust my walk for this type of garment, may I try something else?” She looked me in my eyes and smiled, handing me a new outfit and another chance. I quickly changed and glided down that runway like a floating Angel. I was in!!! She allowed me to wear that garment, and she was the opening designer in the show. LOOK AT GOD! WHEW! I swore I would never tell you that, but it’s so important! You fall, humble yourself and get back up! I left Paris so full! I did editorials, published in magazines, interviews with bloggers, and a dream fulfilled. 

I do not limit myself; I am a print, runway, and commercial model, but it doesn’t stop there. I’ve done hand modeling, industrial videos, and voice-over work. With God, I truly can do ALL things! 

Fast-forward to today, mom of two and still out here pursing my dream! I just shot my first Magazine cover with WeddingDay Magazine (Grand rapids). I have a national commercial on tv with Flagstar Bank–mailers, in location, on the website, and billboards all around Michigan. Literally just today, I filmed another commercial– I am unable to disclose the client; However, Big Seans father, Mr. Jim, played my set father! It was a blast, full of laughs and authentic conversations– while “working.” I truly enjoy what I do and Pray God continually uses me in this space. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This road by no means has not been smooth at all! It has been a bunch of failing, learning, and growing! 

When reaching out to brands I was not effective in my communication to secure an opportunity. There is a makeup brand based in Detroit whom I’ve always wanted to model for. I finally got the opportunity and fumbled it lol. Looking back, I was so excited to get this opportunity that I forgot my professionalism when sending the email. That open door was shut so quickly in my face due to my mistake and unprofessionalism. That was a great learning experience for me, and I am more effective in that area. 

Still a huge fan of the company, and for almost all of my work, I represent their products! They use such a wide range of women– all shapes and all sizes. I am so happy to see them changing the beauty standards and making a huge difference! 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Supermodel Mom. I specialize in modeling– my most booked category of modeling would definitely be Commercials. I am known for being on fire for God, raising two beautiful children, and pursuing this modeling career. I don’t seek fame, I don’t seek riches, I seek to be used by God, and this is where I have been placed. Modeling makes me happy; it energizes my Spirit and allows me to flow creatively. 

I am most proud of the fact I never compromised who I was at my core for a check. People reach out to me all the time with a check $$$$, but if it goes against my vision, beliefs, or morals– I cannot and will not do it. Money will come, and it will come with no sorrow when I do what pleases the Lord. I have a standard and consider myself exclusive. One will see me everywhere because of strategy, not because I agree and do everything that comes my way. 

What sets me apart is the fact that I AM. Everyone being themselves sets them apart from others. I was created for that exact purpose, to be set apart. 

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I see my industry continuing to grow. As long as there are businesses in this World, I will be booked. I can see myself stepping into the influencer market. It is continuing to grow, and with authenticity comes organic growth. Again, I always just do me, and I am most effective doing that. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arielthesupermodelmom/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArielTheModelMom/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@arielthesupermodelmom

Image Credits
@Vince_Glass
@Imsoest
@Ward_robe_inc
Dara White
Lindsay Elaine Photography
Dionne Harris Photography
@Gabriellastephaniec
@nomadic_madam