Meet Lauren Way | Model & Entrepreneur

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

Hi Lauren, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
As a model and entrepreneur with a focus on marketing, maintaining a work-life balance has always been crucial for me, though it has evolved significantly over time. Early in my career, I was heavily focused on building my brand and seizing every opportunity, which often meant long hours and frequent travel with little downtime. However, as I’ve grown both professionally and personally, I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing my well-being.

I now see balance as more than just managing my time; it’s about being present in each moment, whether I’m working on a campaign, exploring a new destination, or spending quality time with my family. Travel, which used to feel like a constant hustle, has become a way to recharge and find inspiration, while my family provides the grounding that keeps me centered.

I’ve realized that balance isn’t about having equal time for everything but making intentional choices that align with my values and goals. This approach has allowed me to be more creative and fulfilled in both my work and personal life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Thank you for the opportunity to share more about my work and journey. My career as a model, entrepreneur, and creative is deeply rooted in my passion for fashion, travel, and storytelling. What sets me apart from others is the diverse cultural experiences I’ve gained from living and working in various countries, including South Africa, London, Nigeria, Turkey, and Italy. These experiences, particularly my time modeling in Milan, have broadened my perspective and allowed me to incorporate unique elements into my content, making it authentic and relatable to a global audience.

One aspect of my career that I’m particularly proud of is my ability to pivot and reinvent myself during challenging times. For instance, when the world came to a halt during the pandemic, I quickly adapted by leveraging my tech skills and hobbies to monetize social media. This not only helped me sustain my career but also enabled me to assist both luxury brands and small businesses in establishing their online presence. Having some of my dream clients reach out to me for partnerships is not only surreal but also a testament that things may come to you in a different form, but what’s meant for you will always find a way to reach you.

The journey to where I am today has not been easy. There were moments of uncertainty, such as when I didn’t make the cut on a popular televised modeling competition or when I found myself on a reality show that dredged up a painful past. However, I’ve always believed in turning setbacks into opportunities for growth. Overcoming these challenges required resilience, adaptability, and a strong support system. I’ve learned that success isn’t linear—it’s a journey filled with ups and downs, and every experience, good or bad, contributes to your growth.

One key lesson I’ve learned along the way is the importance of authenticity. In a world where social media often promotes curated perfection, I strive to remain genuine, sharing both my triumphs and challenges. This authenticity resonates with my audience, building trust and a deeper connection.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am deeply committed to empowering others through my content. By sharing my experiences as a model, offering insights from the diverse cultures I’ve encountered, and providing health and wellness tips, my mission is to inspire and uplift. I believe in spreading love and positivity, and my core message is to pursue what brings you joy, rather than adhering to others’ expectations.

Being comfortable in your own skin and embracing the learning process, including making mistakes, is crucial. I am passionate about the power of faith and the thrill of the unknown. My journey as a model, entrepreneur, and creative reflects the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to oneself. As I continue to grow, I’m excited about the possibilities ahead, including manifesting a beauty campaign and envisioning my own personal product or even an agency in the near future.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1:
Start the trip with breakfast at Urth Caffé, then take a hike at Runyon Canyon for some great views. Spend the afternoon checking out the shops and thrift spots on Melrose, and end the day with dinner at Catch.

Day 2:
Grab breakfast at The Butcher’s Daughter, then explore Griffith Observatory. Have lunch at Il Pastaio, and spend the afternoon at the Getty Center. Finish the day with dinner at Casa Madera.

Day 3:
Start the day with a Y7 hot yoga class, then relax at Manhattan Beach. Find a taco truck for lunch, and later, enjoy dinner with ocean views at Nobu Malibu.

Day 4:
Have a casual breakfast at a local café, then take a scenic bike ride along the coast in Santa Monica. Chill at the beach in the afternoon, and end the day with dinner at BOA Steakhouse in Manhattan Beach.

Day 5:
Head to Mama Shelter for brunch, drinks, and music. Get a Korean scrub at Descanso Garden Spa. Afterward, explore the Sunset Strip. For dinner, enjoy sushi and drinks at Katana, and end the night at a club to dance!

Day 6:
Start the day with breakfast at the Gem Bea Bea’s, then grab lunch at Castaway. Afterward, explore the Burbank Strip for some sightseeing and dessert—don’t miss the fried ice cream and Sushi Stop. End the day with a fun night out.

Day 7:
Start with fresh fruit from a local fruit cart, then head to One LA for church. Check out a farmers’ market, then shop the iconic stores on Rodeo Drive (this will take all day). Have lunch at the Beverly Bar and end the day with dinner at The Nice Guy.

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?
Absolutely! My mom deserves a huge shoutout for everything she’s done to support me throughout my journey. Her love, encouragement, and belief in me have been the foundation of my success. From the very beginning, she’s been my biggest cheerleader, always pushing me to chase my dreams and reminding me of my worth, even during the challenging times.

She has been an incredible role model, showing me the value of hard work, resilience, and staying true to myself. Her guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping who I am today.

So, to my mom and everyone who has been part of my journey—this shoutout is for you! Thank you for being my rock and for always believing in me.

Website: https://Www.laurencaress.com

Instagram: Laurencaress

Other: Email info@laurencaress.com

Image Credits
1.@Jonsthsncortesphoto
2.@adafrizion
3.@adafrizion @iamhdiddy
4. Self
5. @Wearoya
6.@Jimwimberg @salonperfect @Walmart @Malibumagshag
7. Self
8.@Jonsthsncortesphoto