Being on TV is very different from modeling and seeing yourself in an advertisement, on the packaging for some product, or in video from a fashion show. When you’re modeling, you’re anonymous and it’s about the clothes or product. You are selling the product. “Southern Belles” brings “Julie” to the forefront. It’s no longer anonymous, it IS about me in this case (aahhck!) and I AM the product. I’m selling myself, my personality which is kind of cool, kind of strange, but I like that people are getting to know me. I hope they can relate to me, are entertained by me, etc. It’s also very hard not to be your own worst critic and scrutinize every little thing (eg. “WHY did I wear THAT?” or “Don’t ever make that face again.. it’s goofy.” Haha.)

When it comes to my friends and family, though, there’s no hesitation: they’re silly excited. It’s quite funny actually, to see and hear them all wound up. It makes me happy though because although you already know they love you, something like this gives them reason to tell you again how much they do and that they’re so proud. Lot’s of warm fuzzy emails, texts and phone calls lately.

Louisville has been very supportive as well, especially gearing up for the big premier. There is now a Southern Belles Louisville fan page on Facebook! It’s nice. Something that I experienced for a little while after doing “The Bachelor” and that I look forward to again while “Belles” airs is the strangers that approach you to say “We’re very proud to have you representing us and shedding a positive light and image on our city.” THAT feels really good and I hope that I do Louisville proud again this time around.

Julie at the charity event.

With the charity event, to be honest: I was so busy and focused on making sure that I got plenty of items donated from local businesses (many of my friends own businesses around town), setting up the items, getting everything in place before guests arrived, that I didn’t even notice who was kind of slacking and who wasn’t. I doubt that EVERYONE carried their weight equally but in the big picture, my concern was just that we got it done! I didn’t really have time or energy to chase anyone down who wasn’t doing what they should be. That kind of thing comes back around and bites you in the butt anyway so no need for me to stress over it.

As far as conflicts go, I don’t remember any as we were planning. Ha. I guess that means: none that I was involved in. I do remember that as we were getting our hair/makeup done that Shea kept dropping little zingers, kind of picking on Hadley (calling her a tomboy and commenting on her bargain hunting) which sort of irritated me — but whatever ( I don’t know if they air that or not.)

Strike a pose.

What I love about modeling is kind of a result of something I love in general…PRETTY THINGS! I love putting on the beautiful clothes, and getting the beautiful hair and makeup done, etc. I particularly love the adrenaline of a fashion show. It’s so fast paced and chaotic backstage, but then you come out and the music is loud and intense (it kind of feels like I’m dancing as I walk because there’s a rhythm to it.), and you get to do a little bit of acting. I wouldn’t sachay with such an “I am so fabulous” air walking down the frozen section in the grocery store, but on the runway, you’re supposed to be doing that. So I get to be over the top fabulous without coming off as arrogant.

On the other hand, photo shoots are fun because they are such a collaboration by so many people to get that fabulous and amazing shot. I still sometimes will get a print back or see it in a magazine and go “Oh wow…is that Me? I love seeing the great end result to the group effort. OH!!…and of COURSE…I love getting PAID for this!!! ;D

The funniest thing that’s ever happened to me while modeling (besides the occasional wardrobe malfunction, or losing a shoe on the runway) wasn’t even during the gig — it was before. I was supposed to be modeling spring fashions or something or another on television and it was extremely early in the morning, still dark outside. Something was wrong with the buzzer outside the studio and no one knew I was locked out — they just thought I was a no show! So I’m panicking as time to go live was creeping closer. I had no choice but to throw my bags over an 8 foot fence that surrounded the building (with barbed wire at the top no less) and scale the thing! I was scared to death I’d fall or be shredded by this barbed wire if I slipped. Good thing I’m athletic — I got over the thing and ran into the building sweating and heaving…and the show was over. THAT was a bummer but the client thought it I was a hilarious sight and STILL tells the story, years later.

No wardrobe malfunctions (or "soccer moms") here!

The first thing I thought when I was told I would be modeling on the “mom” beat was “Hmm, that’s not as exciting as a fashion show or a swimsuit shoot.” But I’m not in this just so I can say “Yes, dahhhling I am a model.” And you know what? I happen to know several very hot soccer moms and I want to be one one day!!!!!!

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