Ellie Gonsalves

There are some people who come into our lives and really touch our heart with their positivity and inspiration. Ellie is one of those people. At only 19 years of age Ellie has a wisdom in her face that is true and kind. It really is a direct reflection of what is inside. This model profile was my very first model profile but I had not actually put it on my blog, I only had it on my facebook. Silly me! 

Ellie's kind heart and positive ways are such an inspiration that there was no way I was going to hide this model profile any longer! Ellie has worked for many big brands! From Jetpilot to Lorna Jane to Price Attack, she has done it all! She is currently the face of a number of campaigns including Auzrun, Veve Swimwear and Running Bare's Go Pink campaign for Breast Cancer Research. 

I hope you love Ellie's interview as much as I do! Enjoy!

Name:

Ellie Gonsalves

Star Sign:

Aquarius – The water bearer. Sun sign: Air

How did you first get into modelling?

I was first scouted in the city at the age of 13 by my current agency – However I have always been a true believer in taking ACTION on the things I want to achieve in life, and having said that I have found my career has really taken off in the past year or so since I really started going out and generating work myself.. It’s all about taking action and not waiting around for someone else to make the things you want in life happen.

What has your favorite job been so far?

It is really difficult to say what my FAVOURITE project has been so far, I have had the opportunity to be associated with some outstanding companies like Lorna Jane, JetPilot, Veve Swimwear, and Price Attack. Most of them who I’m currently still working with…They have all been so fantastic to work with. But one project I have been involved with that I feel extremely passionate about is called “The Aussie Angels” I love being involved with helping people and BEING the change I want to see in the world -  SO we drew inspiration from the Victorias Secret runway show and created outfits that best suited our personalities with the breast cancer symbols and shot this concept to support the Breast Cancer Foundation. The final images will be signed by the 4 of us Aussie Angels (Danielle Marie Bourke, Lexi Carlin, Emma Ceolin and ME) and auctioned off in the Breast Cancer PINK week - Personally I don't think we could have picked a more appropriate week and foundation that suited such an amazing concept like The Aussie Angels! This has never been done before and I am SO excited to be apart of it.

Who is your inspiration and why?

I have looked up to Miranda Kerr for years, not only in the modeling aspect but her outlook on health and fitness, positivity and the drive she has to succeed in whatever she does. I think it is also extremely important to be surrounded by positive people who support you through whatever decision and direction you choose to go. All of the people I surround myself with are also my inspiration, because they have helped create an environment that has helped me pursue my life goals.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

On the glittery Victoria’s Secret runway with my angel wings..

If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go and why?

I have been fortunate enough to have travelled quite a bit growing up but one of the places on my “101 things to do before I die” goal list is to be in Monaco for the F1.

Favorite book?

I don’t have just ONE! I have numerous for different aspects of my life –

The book I get my drive and determination from?

- The Secret written by Rhonda Byrne

The book I read on humor, educates on animal awareness and health?

- Skinny B**ch written by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin

The book that educates me on my health and fitness?

-          How to get FAT and HOW NOT TO written by Kerry and & Rowena McEvoy.

The book I read on FASHION?

                - That Extra Half an Inch written by Victoria Beckham

Favorite movie?

I am completely in LOVE with horror movies – Looking at me you SO wouldn’t think it, but I grew up watching the ‘Alien’ sequels with my dad, riding horses, and playing in the mud… A total tomboy growing up!

What is your favorite type of exercise?

I very strongly believe in maintaining my health and fitness. I love being able to enjoy healthy eating, working out and the way that it makes me feel everyday. Being healthy is not just an activity I do every once in a blue moon, but a priority I am dedicated to everyday. By choosing the right foods, the skincare that works for me, practicing yoga, and keeping fit on a exercise plan created for my own needs ensures I have LOTS of energy and I'm able to stay in shape, despite what my schedule might be or where I am! This is probably why I have a hard choice of choosing anything in particular!

Three things you cant live without?

I couldn’t live without my wonderful supportive partner Ross and my beautiful family – They have been my driving force to go out and achieve everything I desire in life without them I wouldn’t be the person I am today… AND my dreams board - A dreams board is a canvas you place up somewhere you look everyday.. In your office, bedroom or bathroom. It has photos of all the things you want to have in your lifetime…

What is your biggest indulgence?

When it comes to indulging, I go by the 80:20 rule. Eighty percent of the time I eat food that is highly nutritious and basically what I believe to be 'the essentials' for my body. The remaining 20 percent is the area I grant myself the occasion to treat myself to the things I could not go without- Like Blue Smokes famous spicy Buffalo Wings!

Your favorite designer label?

My favorite designer is Alex Perry – Being an Aussie girl I have grown up with Alex Perry around me. The garments fit my figure so well and they are so beautifully created and so out there.

Any advice for the women of the world?

Growing up I have come to find people around me are so afraid of not 'fitting in'.. I think sometimes it takes a little bit of time for you to grow and actually SEE and accept that it is your difference that MAKES a difference in this world... Your passion, image, drive, or positivity that inspires others around you. While everyone around you is complaining about the gloomy weather or their gloomy circumstances are you the person that looks for the rainbow and the brighter future? I have come to believe that being yourself in a world constantly trying to change you is the biggest accomplishment of all… and it is MORE THAN OK TO BE DIFFERENT! Embrace it, live it and love it – it is you and there is no one out there LIKE you!

Anything you want to add?

I want to leave you with one of my favorite quotes that inspires me everyday to be the best I can possibly be - “If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you can dream it, you can BECOME it.” 

Go to Ellie's website to view her portfolio of stunning work, her Blog and make sure you check out her "Greatest Inspiration"!

http://www.elliegonsalves.com/

Also become a fan on Facebook to stay up to date with all of her amazing travels, blogs and inspirational work!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ellie-Gonsalves/102103299191

Stay fabulous!

avandia recall

GOLD COAST BLAZE

I am not particularly into sport, although I love to play it... watching it bores me to death! But, if you know me at all, you know basketball is my thing! I will watch it and play it until the cows come home. I have a folder full of certificates and medals from my basketball days. It was basically the only thing at school that I was good at and I put effort into because I loved it so much. The personal thrill I get from even holding a basketball is incredible let alone playing a game. When Scott Belzner, official photographer for the Blaze, asked if I would like to come along to meet some of the players from the Blaze at their team photo shoot with their sparkling new uniforms I had to compose myself before I said... YES! 

 So for those of you who don't know much about the Blaze here is a bit of background- 
Plans for a Gold Coast basketball team moved into action in 2003/04 which lead the NBL board to officially accept the bid in November 2006 to enable them to prepare for the 2007/08 season! In February 2007 the franchise announced they would compete under the name the 'Blaze'. The team is owned by local businessmen Owen Tomlinson and Tom Tate. The Blaze are really starting to make their way into the homes and hearts of Gold Coasters with their Rookie of the Year competition, Battle of the Schools program and the So You Think You Can Play promotion. They are also making their way onto the Gold Coast's social and fashion scene with their amazing season launch at Versace. 

Adam Gibson with Chantelle Raleigh at the Blaze's official launch at Palazzo Versace.

The Blaze have actually had a great start to the year. Losing their first game to the Wollongong Hawks was a little disheartening but hopeful as the boys only lost by 6 points, 83-77. But their game over the weekend is possibly the most talked about game so far this season. With 3000 people in the stands (impressive considering the Gold Coast 600 was on at the same time!) they were down 12 points, against the Townsville Crocs, with only 2:50 left on the clock they managed to muster every ounce of energy and skill to make the 12 points needed to level the scores 80-80 at full time which in turn led to extra-time and allowed the Blaze to keep up their point scoring spree and take the game! 94-90! An impressive and heart stopping game it was. 


I was so incredibly nervous driving to the shoots location... I have interviewed plenty of models, stylists and designers, but never any sportsmen! I was afraid that I was going to giggle like a little school girl the whole time (I get nervous around incredibly tall handsome men!). But I managed (I think) to put on my game face!
Here is a quick video of the shoot!

So after arriving and sticking my game face on I managed to take a few snaps and speak to some of the players! 

Stephen Hoare and James Maye

Pero Camron and Pero Vasiljevic

Adam Gibson and Shaun Gleeson


The two players I was able to spend the most time with, Adam Gibson and Chris Goulding, just happened to be from a place I call home, Tasmania! 

Chris in action and at the shoot.


Chris is originally from Launceston and he told me he has been playing basketball since he was only 7 years of age! He has been playing professionally for 4 years. He spent a year with the Brisbane Bullets before moving to Perth to play for the Wildcats for a year and is now in his second year with the Blaze! When I asked him, in true Fashion Blogger form, what his style was outside of the court he replied
'I like to keep it basic with plain T's and my favourite brands are probably G-Star and Nike'.
At only 22 years of age Chris is carving up the court and is tipped to be playing with the Boomers in no time.

Adam doing his thing on the green screen!


Another Launceston boy, Adam is also a big fan of keeping it simple and G-Star when it comes to fashion! He loves living on the Gold Coast and enjoys the beach (in the warmer weather!), shopping and Time Zone! Adam played for the Bullets for 3 years before going to the South Dragons for one year and is now also in his second year for the Blaze.
Adam is only 23 and won the NBL's best defensive player last year. His incredible talent will no doubt help us get to the finals and hopefully take home the championship!


As terribly nervous as I was everyone was so lovely and warm! The players that I met were all too happy to chat and share a joke in between shooting. The Blaze have definitely secured their place in my heart and I cannot wait to go watch them play and I wish them the best of luck for this season!

For more information on the Blaze check out their website 

http://www.nbl.com.au/blaze/

To see more pictures go to Scott Belzner's amazing site

http://sb4photos.com/

and to see some great footage visit their YouTube channel!

http://www.youtube.com/gcblazevideos

They are playing a home game this Friday night! To buy tickets go to

http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=BLAZEIND10&searchId=258f82d5-28c5-4b9e-b09d-c50a7cbe6a04

Stay fabulous!

avandia recall

IDENTITY

Fashion is not just a piece of clothing or jewelry. It's not a hat or a pair of Jimmy Choos. It is us. Our own personal identity mixed with the clothes, accessories and shoes we choose to adorn our body with. That is fashion. So how fitting to have named the Treasury Casino's exclusive preview of stunning seasonal collections from International designers and world -renowned brands, IDENTITY. I attended this show last month and I must say it is my favourite Runway Show to date. Yes I am sure the free flowing Moet Chandon may have something to do with why I loved it so much! But who would not love to go and see a runway show with Ralph Lauren, Chantelle of Paris lingerie presented by Arianne, Maryan Mehlhorn Swimwear, Mitchell Ogilvie Menswear, Samantha Ogilvie, Tiffany and Co and XILE! The venue was amazing, the models were superb and the garments were nothing short of stunning. What makes the night even more exhilarating is that these clothes are part of an identity that screams sophistication, class, allure and elegance. To adorn your body with such garments is a pleasure. They are not just pieces of fabric... they reflect a lifestyle, an attitude and in their timeless quality they share with you their own identity. Needless to say I cannot wait for the next Identity!

Here are some of the pictures courtesy of Brisbane Threads! 


Ralph Lauren

Maryann Mehlhorn Swimwear

Samantha Ogilvie

 Mitchell Ogilvie Menswear

Tiffany & Co and Maryan Mehlhorn Swimwear 2011

Valentino presented by XILE

For lots more pictures you can check out 

IDENTITY Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=103390018355

and Brisbane Threads
http://www.brisbanethreads.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=216&Itemid=92


The next IDENTITY is on Friday November 19, tickets are $70.
Get in quick as it is worth every cent!
http://www.treasurybrisbane.com.au/Whats_On-PAGE__Whats_On__Entertainment-PAGE__Fashion.htm

Stay fabulous!

avandia recall

Interview with the owner of Fashion Television Oceania- Aaron O'Donnell

At the beginning of May this year I decided to start blogging and on May the 29th I covered my very first event! This event was Fashion TV's Full Moon Party at the Jade Buddha Bar in Brisbane. I had spent all afternoon researching information about channel 123 and the people on the guest list. Although I had watched Ftv on occasion for years I did not know much about it and when I found out that the owner of Ftv was going to be at the Full Moon Party I was so very excited! I had decided early on that if I was going to have the confidence to cover events I had to jump in the deep end and interview my 'Mount Everest' (the 'biggest name' on the guest list or the person I felt the most intimidated by) first and the theory is that the other interviews would get easier (it works!). That night Aaron O'Donnell was my Mount Everest! To be honest I didn't manage to interview him first as 1. I couldn't find him and 2. when I did I was waaaay too nervous so I picked my second 'Mount Everest', went to interview her and then finally after a 'pep talk' from my friend I bit the bullet and went and introduced myself. We have been friends ever since! He is so friendly, laid back and happy to meet new people which is not at all what I expected! I also assumed that he would be an older grey man that was a designer at some stage and lived in Melbourne... not a 35 year old, entrepreneur who lives on the Gold Coast! 5 months later I have covered numerous events, have grown in confidence and find myself sitting in the Ftv headquarters on the Gold Coast getting ready for my biggest interview yet!

Where did you grow up?

 I was born in Brisbane, grew up in Cleveland and went to school in Wynnum. I have only been on the Gold Coast for 9 years and I made the move for the opportunities in work and property and of course for the lifestyle that the Gold Coast has to offer!

Whats your favourite childhood memory?

One of my fondest memories is... when I was from about 3 years of age until about 12, we went to Hervey Bay every September school holidays and went fishing on the long Jetty. I also got my first kiss there!

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to fly F-111s and that was not going to happen for me so I thought I wanted to become an architect and then I basically decided that I wanted to be self supportive and entrepreneurial. 

How did you come to own Fashion TV?

I was sitting watching Fashion TV about 6 years ago and I noticed there was no Australian content so I made a series of enquiries and the lady who answered my inquiries, the Vice President of Fashion TV Asia at that time, had actually done business with me 6 years prior in China! So she knew who I was, my business ethics and so forth. I then spent two years traveling the world negotiating the deal as Michel Adams wanted too much for it. I kept negotiating until we both got what we wanted. He originally wanted me to take on a franchise and I said no, if I am going to do it I want the whole thing, I want to own it... the brand, the TV channel, the whole lot. So we are now the only ones in the world that are separate from him and can do everything ourselves. 

Who is your favourite model?

Tough call! In Australia... Abbey Lee Kershaw, Jessica Heart or Bronx Whitehorn. 

Overseas Isabeli Fontana, Natasha Poly.

What is your favourite fashion week? Milan because it has the best designers in the world, it's sexy, great people, fun and it's a good time of the year. In Australia I like Perth Fashion Week because it's fun, exciting, new and not pretentious like some of the others. Some of the best models in Australia come from Western Australia.

Where is Ftv Oceania heading?

My plans for Ftv are, basically, to expand the brand. The television is the television and we make good content. There is a lot of content that is yet to be made but where I am taking the brand now is the franchise systems, the licensing, the merchandise and the website stuff. We will have bars, cafes, restaurants, model schools, gyms, hair salons, vodka, energy drinks, champagne, jewelery, water, and clothing so the future is to have, in Australia, franchise systems in the market place so that anyone who doesn't know Fashion TV... will know it. The Vodka should be here before Christmas and the first hair salon will hopefully open early next year.

If you could go back ten years what advice would you give to yourself?

Have patience and believe in yourself. Go with your gut instinct. Don't bring family into business and don't rely on other people to do what you know you can do better, just go and do it.

If you could go forward ten years what would you tell yourself?

Where is my next pina colda coming from! haha!

Wow you did it....! Wow it's still exciting....! I don't know where I will be in ten years. I could still be doing this, I could be living on an island or I could be broke! I don't know! That's life... it has it's ups and downs. You have to go to the bottom before you can go to the top. I really believe you have to hit rock bottom in your life once before you get to the top. Not just money wise, it could be emotionally or anything. Look at all the most famous millionaires or billionaires, they hit rock bottom before they got to the top and they learn from what happened to them.

Any advice for emerging entrepreneurs?

Be yourself. Stick to the basics. You can go outside the box but how you approach business and deal with business on a day to day basis you really need to stick to the basics. To be an entrepreneur you have to be able to lead. So if you cant do something don't expect your staff to do it. Like being at work on time! Patience is a big one. Entrepreneurs are usually wanting to make a million dollars overnight. You just need to stick to it and keep going and keep going and never give up, eventually it will come.    

Aaron with Alex Perry at the Palazzo Versace on the Gold Coast.

Stay fabulous!

CLE

avandia recall