Winter 2005; Interview by Sun Karma

Sun continues her critically acclaimed series on the dirt behind the grueling fashion/modeling world. Desiree Heat has been making heads turn with her unique blend of sex appeal and girl-next-door looks, but we decided to go under the knife to talk industry topics and why the modeling business isn’t exactly peaches and cream.

This is a tough industry. Often, models are rejected all the time. Were you ever discouraged? What did you do to overcome it? What happened when you finally ‘made it’, did those that rejected you look at you differently then?
There are times that we as human beings ask, “What is the deal?” “Why is or why isn’t this happening for me?” Sure its only natural to fall off track, but if extertainment is really your dream you have to pursue it knowing that there will be hard times. That’s Life! I dont really consider myself as someone who has made it, I’ve only just begun. I have this saying, “Destiny is a given, but finding your destination is the challenge.”

Did you ever think that you would get this far?
I think that I have alot further to go!

What is your secret to success? Everyone has a formula..what is yours?
There’s no secret, GOD strengthens me to take it day by day. I try to focus, be patient, and let his will be done!

What makes you unique as a model? Is it important for up and coming models to find a niche and to market themselves in that niche, or to just ‘go with the flow’ and find a mentor until they can find out what it is that they want to do?
I hate this question because everyone is unique for no other reason but that we are all individuals. I like for others to tell me what makes me unique to them, it’s more endearing. Everyone has to do what’s best for them! Limitations and standards differ because of everyone’s individuality.

How do you market/promote yourself? Do you do it on your own or do you utilize an agency? A lot of models think that yahoo groups and recipocral linking is important..what is your opinion?
I mostly do my own promoting but I’m affiliated with several yahoo groups and agencies.

Whats in the future for you? Do you plan on doing this for another 10 years or is this a transition for you? Often, models have a ‘life’ expectancy in this biz (age wise)..how do you feel about that limitation or does it limit you at all?
I dont know what the future holds. I’m just thankful for my accomplishments and I look forward to the challenge of tomorrow.

In your opinion, paysite or portfolio site, or both?
I think that both are good if that suits you. It just depends on your audience and your goals.

What has been the most influential experience or motivation to you this far?
I think the Source Awards 2004 was the most influential experience so far. I was able to meet a plethra of models from all different backgrounds. It taught me that there are no perfect people. No matter what the media and entertainment portray!

Did you have a ‘mentor’ model that you looked up to when you first entered the industry? Who was it and why?
I’ve always admired Lisa Raye. She’s remained classy and she’s demonstrated longevity.

What is your advice to models trying to break into the biz? I know that you have alot of experience and a wealth of information to offer models that are just breaking into the field. If there were three important things that you could tell them, what would they be? What would you warn them about as well?
My advice to other models is if this is something you realy want, go for it. But be prepared to work! It takes alot to maintain yourself, maintain style, and live a life! Sometimes its a juggling act. I currently go to school, work a fulltime job, and model.

How do you network? And is networking truly important?
I network through my yahoo group, my website, and promotions.

This industry can be quite catty…how do you deal with the drama, or how do you overcome it?
I just don’t entertain the drama. Who am I to pass judgement on someone else’s actions or decisions. But I have to admit that if my opinion is asked for then I have to deliver!

We all have things in life that ‘ground’ us from time to time and remind us what is really important. What are your grounding elements in your life?
My family and close friends keep me grounded. I’m from a very economically challenged city, New Orleans. At home the small things seem “Real Big”!

You are one edgy babe..that is to be respected in this biz..that you stand out from the other type of glamour models. Have you gotten any flack from this for being so different and unique?
I dont really consider myself edgy. I think I’m sexy but classy! I’ve had a lot of people say for the genre of entertainment I’m in that I’m conservative.

What is your ‘fantasy shoot’ and who would it be with (photographer or model)
My fantasy shoot would probably take place in the Louisiana swamps with my personal favorite photopher Brian Perkins of Perkography. Different, hunh?

Please fill in anything else that you want to say…promote yourself, etc.
You can find me at my website.