We had the good fortune of connecting with Lily Vachon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lily, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
I recently heard Will Smith talking about sky diving and he said “God places the best things on the other side of fear.” I don’t know if he was the originator of this saying but it really stuck out to me and made me think of all the things I recently have been going through. As of right now, this quote is set as my phone background to remind me everyday to live my life in love instead of fear.

What this quote means to me is to achieve the best things in life, you have to live through the obstacles with hard work and an open mind and you WILL get what to want. If you are strong enough to face the fear, you will achieve the prize on the other side.

To bend the mind further, for me, this also translates into the bigger idea/battle of the mind of ‘success vs. regret’. Would you rather take a risk and be successful or experience something great? or live in fear (deciding not to, even when you’re heart may say different) without that potential result?

Why be scared in this life? What are we all scared of? This goes to risk playing a huge part in our individual lives, we all take risks every day. Take that job, jump out of that plane, make that new friend! Most things in life are flexible and can be changed or moved around if the result is unsatisfying for YOU. What I really believe is, if things don’t turn out as planned from that risk, at least you tried and did everything you could. With that, the qualities you posses in the given situation would be determination, open mindedness, hope/faith and perseverance. Those are ALL amazing qualities to posses as any human being.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My name is Lily Vachon. I have been modeling for 6 years. I started my journey my freshman year of college in Providence, Rhode Island. This gave me opportunities and networks in both NYC and Boston. Instantly knew streetwear was my niche, and then evolved into beauty, portrait, and editorial fashion. I’m so proud of the shoots and brands I have done work for major brands.

After graduating and moving to Los Angeles, now being in a bigger market, of course it has it’s challenges. This industry is not easy and I’m still working towards certain goals I had five years ago and that’s okay. To overcome these challenges, it is so important to have a great support system. Encouragement and motivating circle of friends and family to get you back on track if you ever feel discouraged.

Some lessons I learned are to always have your own back. Trust yourself and make sure you’re solid with your own path. Also take chances and always go with your gut. There have been a few situations where I almost took the advice from others, but it turned out that my own advice was the best call. I want people to know that I am an open book. I love being there for others, teaching/giving tips to people starting out, or being a shoulder for support.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I recently visited the area of Palos Verdes, so scenic… and the beaches are quiet. Every corner is a photo op, and definitely an area worth location scouting if you are a creator.

Food, ahhhh if you are on a budget I would say Loved Baked Wings (infamous flavor) on melrose and the pickles and potato wedges are a must. Best wings. Also Sal’s on Melrose if you’re a pasta lover. After you’re done thrifting or visiting the Melrose Flea market these are great spots for quick lunch!

More on the pricey side would be Il Pastio, an Italian restaurant in Beverly Hills. Everything we ordered was a 10/10. Catch is also amazing for brunch! Mimosas and the stack of waffles are a must!

Hikes on Runyon or the trails near the Conservatory, are easy to medium walks/hikes and super fun with amazing views if you enjoy exercise & the outdoors.

Lastly, for quick road trips I would suggest Joshua Tree National Park and the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. I love discovering new places and anything adventurous!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shoutout Byanca Xiomara, (@byancaxiomara) a close friend and someone I consider a sister. You inspire me with your patience, outlook on love, and hard work as an industry peer as well. You are going to change the world with your designs and your transition to Los Angeles is just the start. You’re always there for me as a listener, supporter, and creator. Love always.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilyvachon/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lily-vachon-7a4a9a198

Other: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itslilyvachon?lang=en

Image Credits
First Photo: (gray suit) photo by Michael Winters Second Photo: photo by Adam Peterson Third Photo: photo by Brian Christopher Fourth Photo: photo by Michael Winters Fifth Photo: (lakers hoodie): photo by John Garduno

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.