Runway Modeling Demands Artistic Skill, Emotional Intelligence

A real estate broker and landscaping products dealer in Kansas City, Andrea Villines worked as a professional model in the late 1990s. As a model with Hoffman International Model & Talent Agency of Overland Park, Kansas, Andrea Villines traveled to six countries for her work, specializing in walking the runway. A winner of the Top Runway Model award in 2001, she also appeared in commercials and print advertisements.

Runway models appear at fashion shows to model clothing and other items. Their audience frequently consists of important decision-makers such as clothing buyers and other designers. With minimal props and no verbal tools at their disposal, runway models focus their creative energies on visual expression using their own bodies. As a key component of realizing a designer’s vision, they must capture the attention of the audience with the goal of selling the merchandise they are modeling. Different client items require different presentation, which increases the artistic demands of runway modeling.

Organizers of fashion shows describe the competencies of runway models as multifaceted, going beyond walking ability to include intangibles such as confidence and attitude. These qualities help present the designer’s work in the best light.

Community Improvement District Beautifies Martin City

A successful entrepreneur and real estate broker, Andrea Villines has succeeded in a variety of fields, including music and fashion. Andrea Villines’ family line includes North Pole explorer Robert Peary and a well-known Kansas City property owner. Her great-grandfather co-founded Martin City, Missouri.

Named for distillery magnate, former Kansas City mayor, and education board member Edward Martin, Martin City, Missouri, encompasses the area surrounding 135th and Holmes Street. Although it became part of Kansas City in 1963, Martin City retains a small-town feel. It remains populated by vintage homes on large lots and flourishing family-owned businesses.

In 2005, the Missouri General Assembly, working in partnership with the business community of Martin City, established a Community Improvement District in the town. The District, funded by a $0.005 sales tax and a $150 property assessment, oversees a variety of programs designed to beautify, secure, and promote the area as well as improve the business climate.

The District operates under the supervision of a seven-member board of directors and employs one district manager to oversee its programs. Its geographic reach extends over 75 businesses and 300 acres.