Meet Katrina Medalle: Stylist, Creative Director & Entrepreneur

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

Hi Katrina, why did you pursue a creative career?
Representation. When I first started my creative career as a Stylist and Coordinator, my experiences in fashion photography and runway revealed a common misfortune that many models faced. They weren’t being heard nor did their feelings ever get considered; and if they were to speak up, they were labelled “difficult to work with”. In leadership roles, my enthusiastic and positive demeanour made me approachable among the team. So when models opened up to me about their own insecurities and lack of confidence, I couldn’t turn my back. The reality behind the scenes and the expectations from models is of the “highest” standard, and that “professionalism” means remaining silent and to do as they’re told — without any issues or backtalk. However, I am a firm believer that if one doesn’t feel confident, then it will for sure be projected on stage. If these women were to perform their best, then they must feel their best. It’s the root of how I built my business. Not only am I coaching clients on their own personal style, but I’ve infused these concepts with how to confidently embody what it means to radically love oneself. To look in the mirror and accept the person looking back at them — flaws and all. So much of my work as a Creative Director has been to establish authentic relationships with my team and by doing so, create warm and inviting environments, respecting everyone’s individual talent and shared ideas. We must learn to respect each other’s differences. Nobody likes to be ignored, or not seen, not heard, or listened to. It’s important for me to continuously breakthrough old ideologies in our industry, in order to build better conditions for our creative collective.  

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Being innovative is what I’m most proud of. Especially during our global pandemic, as I develop more as a person, so does my business and career. I’m more adaptable, pivotal and progressive. It was never easy; actually when I decided to deep dive into entrepreneurship, it was a result of getting fired from my corporate job. I used those corporate experiences to be a sponge — to absorb information, gain strategies and utilize my time effectively to learn more about business and marketing. My core values set me apart from others since my brand’s messaging revolves around much more than just fashion and style. At Special Kace, we embrace differences, learn to develop our self love relationship and put an emphasis on self care. Style is a self love activity. These pillars have helped me overcome challenges and establish my unique teaching style. I truly believe that the content, projects and programs that I put out into the world are more than mindless, momentary enjoyment. But instead, used with purpose and power. People, our industry and the world needs to heal from old ways of thinking and doing. Empowerment means empowering others. So my personal story, Special Kace as a business and brand, works to become the change we want to see in this world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
While out in LA, the beach is a must for me! I could spend the entire day lounging in the sun. Paradise Cove, Venice and Santa Monica Beach are perfect for sunbathing and fun filled beach days. For my creatives out there looking to shoot, Sacred Cove and Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is a natural beauty that’s an absolute sight. I’m a sucker for American fast food so a trip is not complete without an In-N-Out Burger, Shake Shack’s or tacos from Teddy’s Red Tacos right on Venice Beach. Check out Bar Marmont at Chateau Marmont on Sunset for a drink and their old rustic atmosphere for the must have insta-gramable pic; and up your movie experience with Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery for a pretty sunset and movie under the stars. 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?
Couldn’t be where I am today without the support from my team who continuously pushes me forward: MJ King, Sean Diamond, Bryce Bishop, Renecca Vernon; Courtney Odelein, Meghan Norah and Sorina Matheson at AOS Toronto that sparked new confidence and growth in me, which inspired new ventures; the Make Your Mark family for my business mentorship; Sandra Vitale and the core team at Modern Bride Wedding Show for allowing me to be creatively free and believing in my vision; my Daddy, Victor Ramiro who’s instilled work ethic and creativity in my life; and “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho — the ultimate must read for any enduring individual looking to find their own purpose

Website: specialkace.com
Instagram: @special.kace/@specialkace.style
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kcmedalle/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCMedalle

Image Credits
Sean Signature Collection, Allan Photography, Fantastique Productionz, DCarlton Photography, Toronto Production House