Tia Collins
~ Executive Producer/Director/Entrepreneur ~
Rodney Wayne Branche
Copa Style Magazine Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
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Copa: Where are you from?
Tia: Homegrown Washington DC but currently live in Southern Maryland.  Mrs. Vendetta White
Copa: At what time did you decide to enter the world of Modeling?
Tia: The Modeling world chose me, I was born to do this! I really believe entertainment is my calling. I've been modeling my whole life. I am a graduate of the “Washington DC Tots to Teen Charm School” program instituted by my Grandmother Mrs. Vendetta White, who was the first African American woman to own & operate a Charm school in the 70's & 80's. My Grandmother produced large awe-inspiring fashion productions for Mayor Marion Barry and various upscale department stores. I later mirrored my Grandmother’s great achievement with the desire to continue her legacy and started my own charm school called "Tia's Tots & Teens" Charm school to honor her. Copa: When and where was your first fashion show and photo-shoot?
Tia: My very first fashion show and photo shoot was many many moons ago (ha-ha) I was 3 years old doing professional photo shoots and runway shows for Sears Roebuck in Washington DC. Copa: Were you nervous or confident at the shoot? If so, in what way?
Tia: Being in the spotlight brings out both of my personalities. I'm a mixture of shyness and boldness. You never know which Tia you are going to get sometimes. I’m naturally a shy person but when it’s time to perform the 'Catwalk Queen' emerges. Haha! Copa: Who are your favorite 3 models?
Tia: I only have one favorite model and its GRACE JONES! She exudes originality, passion and fierceness. |
Copa: What is your personal philosophy on fashion & style?
Tia: My Personal Philosophy in life is “I am my own Motivation in Life” That carries over to everything I set out for. It always starts from within. 
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The 'legendary' Grace Jones
Copa: At what time did you establish “The Real Models of DC?”
Tia: I had the idea of "The Real Models of DC" to highlight our fashion world in Washington DC since 2014. It took a few years to execute because of other projects & developments in the works. "The Real Models of DC" is one of my many creations. My first episode that I produced was released in early 2019. This is something that I've always wanted to do. I believe that Washington DC is underestimated in the Fashion World. I also want the viewers to know that "only" industry standard modeling is out the window. It's a new day! Models are real people that come in different categories, plus, mature, petite, etc. My show will highlight real models that live very real lives.
Every model has a story!
Tia: I had the idea of "The Real Models of DC" to highlight our fashion world in Washington DC since 2014. It took a few years to execute because of other projects & developments in the works. "The Real Models of DC" is one of my many creations. My first episode that I produced was released in early 2019. This is something that I've always wanted to do. I believe that Washington DC is underestimated in the Fashion World. I also want the viewers to know that "only" industry standard modeling is out the window. It's a new day! Models are real people that come in different categories, plus, mature, petite, etc. My show will highlight real models that live very real lives.
Every model has a story!
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Copa: Were there many hurdles you had to overcome with staff and technical issues?
Tia: We all have a blast and vibe well when filming together - Pre-COVID. The only minor challenge is trying to get everyone together at the same time and coordinating everyone’s schedules to film the show. |
Copa: How many episodes have been released so far?
Tia: I have 3 shows including a trailer. COVID-19 kind of slowed down the process but won't stop me. You will see more of my creation "The Real Models Of DC" once COVID-19 makes its grand exit. The Official Trailer is on this link https://youtu.be/KM1XnX8SukA More Episodes Coming Soon!!! |
Copa: What does the future hold for Tia Collins and “The Real Models of DC?”
Tia: Only GOD knows the future. As a model & actress that showcased my talents in DC Film Festival, numerous plays, national TV, New York Fashion week, movies, receiving the “Inside Out Beauty Award” for the Trade Show Models in Washington DC among other accolades I can tell you I strongly believe in Going BIG or Go HOME! I believe in manifestation and the belief that what you put out you get back. I am very optimistic my creation "The Real Models of DC" show will be seen worldwide.
Tia: Only GOD knows the future. As a model & actress that showcased my talents in DC Film Festival, numerous plays, national TV, New York Fashion week, movies, receiving the “Inside Out Beauty Award” for the Trade Show Models in Washington DC among other accolades I can tell you I strongly believe in Going BIG or Go HOME! I believe in manifestation and the belief that what you put out you get back. I am very optimistic my creation "The Real Models of DC" show will be seen worldwide.
Please click this link to hear the Radio Show
