Close-Up | Ella MG

Mark Johnson of When Light Falls Photography,
Clothing by Ja'Nae vs. Ja'Nae

Hey Belles&Beaux!

There are always so many talented models at every show, but this April (at the Gg Collection show) I met one that is quickly becoming a top model (I think we can probably just call her a top model already).

Ella MG is actually an up-and-coming model in Milwaukee, but she seems like such a pro from her portfolio. And she's beyond nice, so it's always great to work with her and I was totally excited I was able to interview her. She was also in the fashion show for Timothy Westbrook's Project Runway premiere party (photo below).

How long have you been modeling? How did you get into the industry?

I was first introduced to the fabulous world of modeling while working as a photography assistant at a photo studio in Allenton during the summer after my Junior year in High School (2010). There was a group shoot set up for that day and a couple more models were needed, so my boss asked if I and some friends would be interested in modeling for the event. I was super excited and rounded up a girlfriend to bring with. We shot with many well-known photographers in the area and, although we both had no idea what we were doing, got a bunch of great pictures out of it! That was my first exposure to the industry, and I honestly never really considered doing more with it than a few filler positions here and there until a fellow model-friend of mine stepped in.

Noelle Hetzel (Noelle Rose) and I worked together at the local Walmart when she first mentioned to me that I should model. We were both pretty unhappy with our day-jobs at the moment and looking for something more. She was doing fairly well as a freelance model at the time and promised me that she would show me the ropes and practically mentor me every step of the way. I denied her multiple times, shaking my head that modeling wasn't for me. After all, what would the fashion industry want with a small town girl like me? I mean, honestly, I grew up on a farm, and with 5 brothers, I was seriously the biggest tomboy my whole life. You couldn't catch me in a dress, much less heels, a short 6 months ago!


It came to be January 2013 and I finally gave in. I made a Model Mayhem (www.modelmayhem.com/ellagorgan) and was extremely surprised by the level of attention I got from photographers. It all took off from there. I did a couple TF shoots, and got comfortable in front of the camera. I was spending all my free time practicing posing techniques and gaining confidence in those stilettos. Personally, it all really took off for me after modeling for Aquage at America's Beauty Show 2013 in Chicago, IL in March. They transformed my look drastically and that was the first time I actually FELT like a model. When I got home, I auditioned for a fashion show with Gg Collections and have networked my way to where I am now from that point on.

What's your favourite part of modeling?

My favorite part of modeling is definitely all the fabulous people I meet and get to work with! I was a little worried at first about working with other models. I thought I was going to be competing with a bunch of divas!! The truth could not be more opposite. I have met some of my closest friends through modeling and formed bonds that I don't think will ever be broken. Photographers, designers, HMUAs, everyone has been just lovely.

What has been the most fun show or photo shoot?

Hmm... that's a tough one.. I would have to say at this point the most fun I have had was in Chicago at ABS. It was very exciting for me because it was my first real exposure to the glitz and glam of the fashion world. There was mystery with every new day of the 4-day event wondering what new hairstyle I would be ending the day with. Also, working with the Aquage team and all of the other models for that extended period allowed us to bond. It definitely felt like an "Aquage family" as they often call eachother. I made friends there that I still talk to, visit, and even arrange shoots with.

Do you have any favourite photographers, stylists, or models to work with?

I really enjoy working with all of my model girlfriends that I have become super close with: Noelle, Carri Niet, Suzanne Beck, Erica Stenglein, Chelsea Crawford, and Alli Shinn. As far as photographers go, I especially loved working with Lex Allen because we both seem to be on the same page style-wise and he was very easy and fun to work with. Richard Allen, Joel Stensberg, Kryg Piatek, Mark Johnson, and Abe Van Dyke are a few others that I have enjoyed working with and see around the fashion scene often. Those are just a few people that stand out to me, but as I said before meeting and working with new people is the best part of this industry.

What do you do when you're not modeling?

When I'm not modeling I'm usually working or at school. I am going to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, double-majoring in psychology and communications. I am currently nannying for a four-year-old and a newborn for the summer, but I also work at the Wisconsin Early Autism Project as a line therapist. I definitely keep busy, that's for sure!

Who's your personal style icon?

I'm not really sure that I have a personal style icon. I may be tsk-ed by others for this, but if I like something style-wise I like it and if I don't, I don't. I never really follow the latest trend or celebrity activity.. Although I can say that I am loving the mints, chevron, studs, and hi-low trends right now!

Aquage transformation. Photo by Luis Alvarez. Styling by Aquage Masterclass Academy.

Gee Luedtke Photography; Styling by Alexis Rose, Elyse Cizek, and Megan Zarnott; Hair by Heidi Kiely, Makeup by Katie; Swimwear by BrownCow Vintage; Necklace by Sunshine Acid Designs; Hat by Linda Marcus; taken at Project Runway Premiere "Girl from Midwestbrook" fashion show feat. Timothy Westbrook

Dametreus Creations Photography; Clothing by Chelsea Stotts of ModaMuneca; Hair by Johnathan London; Makeup by Angelica Morales

Ron Justin, Swimwear by Rosina Mae based out of Chicago, IL

Lex Allen Photography; Hair by Leana Cristiana; Makeup by Aleasha Hernandez;
Clothing by Bjorn Olaf Nasett of Fashion Farmboy

Follow her on facebook so you don't miss any of her amazing shows and photo shoots.

Stay Fabulous,
xoxo Aimee