Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Clarke.
Hi Mary, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
It all started in Iowa doing fashion shows at the local mall. When the need for models for the shows grew, I began scouting for local talent. In 1993 I placed my first model with a NY agency and the fire was lit in me. A few years later in 1997, I discovered a then 19 year old Ashton Kutcher and that is when I realized the magnitude of the model business. We continued to place models globally. In 2001 we moved from Iowa to St Louis, continued to scout, develop and manage models while raising 4 kids in the suburbs. Our next major milestone was the discovery of Karlie Kloss at 14 years old. We co managed her for many years while continuing to discover fashion stars getting recognition from Vogue, Wall Street Journal, Entertainment Tonight and more
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
So many struggles along the way. Challenges with dealing with the not so integrity driven side of the fashion world.
Financially it takes time to build a strong management business, we built it along side raising kids, building a network marketing business with Arbonne International, and Jeff was getting ready to take on overnight job with UPS when Karlie Kloss” career took off and Jeff began traveling alongside her for every fashion week circuit. There were many lean years in the beginning. Covid really impacted us as we rely on models traveling. It took a few years to get back on our feet.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Our name says it all, MOTHER. We are known for nurturing, protecting and bringing big dreams to life for our models/talent. Most known for having an “eye” for what the top fashion designers and clients are looking for, we are equally regarded for our process for development and management. Navigating at a top level for three decades. Our next endeavor, mentoring aspiring mother agents around the world with “The Model Business By Mother”
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
We have been mentored by agency owners, scouts, and the top casting directors in the world. They helped refine our eye and learn strategic management.
Contact Info:
- Website: mothermodelmanagement.com mothermaryclarke.com
- Instagram: @mothermodel @mothermaryclarke @themodelbusinessbymother
- Facebook: @mothermodel @maryclarke
- Youtube: @mothermodels
Image Credits
Richard Nichols, Tom Davis,
