Model: Katy Monroe @missmonroexoxox Photographer: Oscar Picazo @oscarpicazoofficial MUAH: Oscar Picazo @oscarpicazoofficial PR: WaveMags Agency @wavemags
Hi Katy, welcome to FHM Bulgaria. You pursue modeling alo ngside music. How do you manage to balance these two fields?
I feel so grateful I get to do both! I mainly choose the projects I am most passionate about. I love fantasy and creating new shows, new looks and playing different roles. Music however will always be priority and what I hold closest to my heart.
Who or what inspires you as a performer?
I take a lot of my inspiration from the 40’s and 50’s glamour actresses. My absolute favs are Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield and I can’t leave out Anna Nicole Smith. I had her iconic guess ads all over my bedroom and she was my first example of a tall, voluptuous and blonde and I felt like I might have a possible modeling career. I was 6’0” in my small town and that wasn’t always the “cool” thing so she helped me learn I could be beautiful in an unconventional way. Glamazon! Music wise I’m A Judy Garland fan for life! Her voice, music and stylings are just everything!
What unexpected skill or experience unrelated to music or modeling has helped you in your career?
Travel! Traveling all around the world and experiencing different cultures and environments has changed me forever! I’m from a small town in the Midwest and I loved growing up there. Navigating independently and adapting to situations has become a joyful experience instead of being scared. This has taught me to be willing to try new things and not be afraid to fail. Failure is only not trying!
What’s harder for you: working in front of the camera in modeling or holding the attention of a live audience on stage?
I’m very comfortable in front of the camera but people may not see all of the work that goes into the details behind the scenes. It can be quite demanding! Being on stage I feel alive and in charge and it has always come to me naturally. I enjoy the costumes and the music rehearsals and dance rehearsals. I have to admit modeling is a bit more difficult for me even tho I love it too!
You’ve said that music is a way to share a piece of yourself. What would you like to sing about that you haven’t yet?
I think I would like to sing more songs about female Independence and confidence building. I love being a partner and I believe men are incredible but I thinks it’s important for girls to grow up knowing they can trust their instincts and be anything they want to be!
You’ve tried acting—do you plan to pursue it further?
I love, love, love acting! I have something special I will be performing in Las Vegas early next year. Shhhhh… it’s still a secret!
You created your own show „Miss Monroe Xoxo“. What unexpected challenges did you face while developing it?
Trusting myself! Producing my own show and writing and performing was such a joy! It came so naturally to me! I constantly second Guessed my choices developing it and found that my instinct is the best guide.
What advice would you give your 14-year-old self, just starting out in your career?
Don’t listen to anyone negative! Dream bigger and you can live your dreams! Don’t be scared! Go for it!
You say, “The key is to work hard and stay true to yourself.” How do you maintain authenticity in such a competitive industry?
I never focus on others. I only compete with myself. There will never be another me so all I can do is be the best Katy Monroe.
Is there a specific place or stage where you still dream of performing?
The last places I’ve done my show is Amalfi and Las Vegas. I have been to Monte Carlo numerous times and I dream of taking my dog Holly and spending a few months performing in their casinos.
