LE CREME NATION:

BRITTANY IRELAND: UNCOVERED

BY MII 

LCN: Good morning Brittany, how did the Rocawear event go last night?

BRIT: Morning! The event was amazing! Yes, it was a very sexy rooftop event overlooking the Chicago skyline. I was very impressed, but as always, if you have ever been to any kind of Rocawear event, you already know to expect nothing but the very best and to be floored by fabulous-ness!!

LCN: How did it feel being at home from L.A. and working with Basketball Wives star Jennifer Williams at the event?

BRIT: It is always amazing coming back home to Chicago. Chi-city will always be my city and it always grounds me and humbles me to come back home and see my close friends and family. Yes, working with Jennifer was great. We have the same manager, Deanna Morales of WiteGoldPR, who is just simply amazing, so we have worked together on some things before in the past.  I can’t reiterate enough how pleasant and lovely she is to work with! (smiles) Contact Deanna at Deanna@WiteGold.com for any booking requests.

LCN: Got you’re coffee ready?

BRIT: Yes! Grande soy white chocolate mocha no whip! My morning drug- mmmm!

LCN: Brittany Ireland… By the way, for some reason I love that name. Tell us about yourself.

BRIT: I was born and raised on the south side of Chicago. I grew up surrounded by a great family who always supported me in everything I did. When I was 13 I began modeling and since have had the opportunity to explore the ins and outs of this industry to the fullest. I’m a unique combination of Irish/Italian and Black/Brazilian, and have long been sought after for my exotic look. I’m currently a happy resident of both the San Diego and Chicago areas, and can be seen gracing the pages of KING, Dipstick, and 50/50 Mag just to name a few.

LCN: Where have we seen you?

BRIT: I was recently named Ms. Howard Stern TV May 2011 and have also been working hard at various Playboy events throughout the country. You’ve seen me on Playboy.com in the arcade games and in the gallery. You’ve heard me on Playboy Radio many times and on Chicago’s Q101 Alternative Radio hosting the Cubs Home Opener Live from Wrigley Field with the Sherman and Tingle Morning Show. I was also named Q101’s Token Hottie for March 2011 and interviewed numerous people on air such as the amazing filmmaker Kevin Smith. You have also seen me at the Playboy Mansion many times for Playboy Golf Finals and parties, and I recently landed a role in “Camp Playboy”on Playboy TV that began airing July 21st. I am looking forward to my upcoming feature in KING magazine this September and a few other national magazines as well. And of course, you can find me all over the social media outlets on the Internet, especially on twitter @BrittanyIreland, my new addiction for now...(laughs).

LCN: As mentioned, you’re a Chicago native, how was life growing up there?

BRIT: Amazing! I was fortunate enough to live in a very tight-knit community where everyone watched out for each other. Some of my best memories are from my youth and include barbequing, baseball games, and camping out in the backyard with kids from the neighborhood. I had such a wonderful time as a kid, and to this day I love to go back to the south side and reconnect.

LCN: You also receive a formal education at Loyola University correct?

BRIT: Yes, I attended Loyola University in Chicago. I went to a Jesuit high school in Chicago so the transition to Loyola was quite easy and natural for me. I had applied to many other schools Fordham, Loyola Marymount, Colorado at Boulder, but ultimately I decided to stay close to home and my family and chose Loyola. I studied Journalism and Business Communications.

LCN: Were you modeling while attending school?

BRIT: I was able to keep it up in high school, but when I started college my mom made me take a break to focus on college. Looking back now, I often wonder how that was possible (especially during finals etc.), but some how I was able to manage when I was young.

LCN: Is modeling your full-time gig?

BRIT: Yup! I put all my energy into this because it is something I am truly passionate about and thoroughly enjoy. I don’t believe in doing things in life that don’t make you happy because life is so short and so precious. Modeling for me is what makes me happy every single day when I wake up, so why stop!!! (laughs & smiles)

LCN: Who introduced you to the modeling industry?

BRIT: Well, when my mother was young she was a high fashion runway and print model because of her tall height and stunning good looks. So I always grew up looking at her old modeling photos thinking at some point I wanted to be like her. She had an opportunity to go overseas to model but her parents wouldn’t let her at the time so she always told me to pursue my dreams and take every opportunity given to me. Ironically one day we were shopping in a mall when I was 13, and I was approached about modeling. From that moment on I began my journey into the modeling world and haven’t really looked back. It’s funny most girls learn how to put on makeup from their mothers. I learned how to put on makeup and apply eyeliner at my agency! (smiles)  

LCN: What would you have been if you had never modeled?

BRIT: I am an amazing swimmer; I’m like a little fish in the water. If I hadn’t pursued a career as a model, I would be swimming for the US Women’s Swim Team and have won a few gold medals by now! Sometime’s I look back and wonder what it would have been if I would have chosen that path instead.

LCN: Before you were a model what did you do?

BRIT: I was recruited by a modeling agency at the age of 13, so before I was a model I was just your average kid running around getting mud and grass stains on my jeans, being a junior lifeguard, and a junior olympic swimmer. Swimming was my life before modeling.  I practiced twice a day before and after school, on weekends and holidays. It was intense, but I loved it. It was my life.

LCN: Cool, what was your first modeling assignment?

BRIT: Bohyme Hair ad campaign. I am still the face of the company all these years later! It’s weird, my friends will walk into hair stores all over the country and be like I saw your face today! I’m like oh cool! lol. I recently walked into a hair store in San Diego and was greeted by a huge poster of myself at the door. Someone needs to get me my royalties like pronto!

LCN: How did you become to be so comfortable in front of the camera?

BRIT: I was lucky enough to be a natural right off the bat. I’m not going to say I wasn’t nervous my first few times shooting, but I was able to utilize a lot of the movements and poses I had learned in ballet and dance and apply them to my shoots, which impressed the photographers and clients. I have my parents to thank for always encouraging me in the arts, and it really paid off for me to have those experiences in my background!

LCN: How did you feel taking off your clothes for the first time?

BRIT: I had a ton of emotions going through me at my first nude shoot. I was nervous but very excited! The moment I stepped out of my robe, I went all out and by the end of the shoot I forgot I was naked. It turned out amazing and I was very impressed with the pictures!

LCN: How would you describe the image that comes across when people look at your photos?

BRIT: Sexy, smart, and sophisticated with a bit of a down-to-earth flare!

LCN: What type of rituals do you follow before shooting?

BRIT: I really don’t have any rituals. I go in, make friends, and do what I came to do and do it well- of course and go home! Pretty simple its not brain surgery.

LCN: Let’s say that you’re a photographer shooting an amateur model with great potential and upside, that’s truly interested in shooting and possibly casting for Playboy. It’s her first nude shoot she’s a nervous wreck; how would you relax her?

BRIT: Pump her up with a ton of compliments and make her laugh and feel comfortable with me. Chances are if she is interested in shooting for Playboy, it won’t take too much to get her naked anyway!

LCN: How did you become a Playboy model?

BRIT: I was casted in a television show and the day we were to begin filming out in LA I went to a Playboy casting with a girlfriend. I tested, and after playboy asked me to go to headquarters that day and shoot some more stuff for playboy.com. They also invited me to an event there the next day. I ended up calling the producers of the TV show and respectfully declined taking part. I began working with Playboy ever since.

LCN: How long have you been a modeling for Playboy?

BRIT: I have been with Playboy for almost 2 years now.

LCN: Was Playboy your target magazine when starting your career or were you only dreaming of doing print for fashion magazines and/or runway modeling?

BRIT: Actually, I wanted to leave my options open. I never had a target magazine. I just kind of go with the flow. What’s meant to be will be so as I grew older I knew I wanted to explore different aspects of the industry, and working with Playboy just seemed like the natural next step in my career when the opportunity presented itself. I’m very happy with the experiences I have been able to gain while working with Playboy, and I look forward to many more to come!

LCN: How were you accepted as far as being one of the very few African American models’ being chosen for Playboy?

BRIT: Everyone is super sweet and nice. Playboy is like one big family so I was accepted with open arms and I am happy to say some of my best girlfriends have come from working at Playboy.

LCN: Do you think there’s a future for urban models in the 40 inch hip club in Playboy?

BRIT: Haha, I don’t know you’d have to ask Hef that. That’s not my department. (smile).

        

LCN: We may have to set something up at the mansion (laughs). What was your favorite modeling assignment?

BRIT: My favorite assignment was shooting Camp Playboy in Big Bear California. The crew was great the cast was great and it was a very memorable experience with all my girlfriends. We actually stayed in a real camp site while filming so I felt like I was a little girl at sleep away camp all over again. (laughs)!

LCN: Have you done any video shoots?

BRIT: I just recently shot my very first video ever with Carl Thomas for his “Sweet Love” video. He’s great to work with and we had a blast on set with all the camara and crew.  

LCN: What has this year been like for you in terms of modeling work?

BRIT: Amazing! I’ve had the opportunity to do work with KING, 50/50, Dipstick, etc. It has been a great ride, and I’m looking forward to what next year has to bring.

LCN: You’re going to be featured in KING soon? When can look for that to drop?

BRIT: Yes! Look for me to hit stands this month!

LCN: How was that experience working with Sean Malcolm?

BRIT: He’s awesome. I can’t wait to work with him and his team again. Probably one of the top ten best shoots I’ve had. The atmosphere is comfortable and professional like a family and very easy to work in. I had an absolute blast and we even had a whole little debate on astrology signs! (laughs) I’m still a little salty because I guessed Sean’s wrong. (laughs & smiles)

LCN: (Laughs) How much experience have you gotten as far as working with and meeting people in the industry?

BRIT: I have been fortunate to work with some of the biggest icons in this industry that I have long looked up to. I have also had the opportunity to collaborate with some amazing artists on projects that support some really amazing causes-something I’ve always wanted to use my celebrity for. I can’t wait for them to roll out this New Year’s Eve. 

LCN: So far, what has been your most memorable modeling experience?

BRIT: My most memorable would have to be modeling for KING magazine. The location was just magical and the shoot itself was so surreal.

LCN: As an urban model, you likely deal with stereotypes. Which would you say is the worst?

BRIT: I don’t label myself as any type of model and I definitely would not label myself in such a general term. I have modeling in all aspects of the industry, this aspect is just another new adventure for me. I think no matter what kind of model you are, you will face the same stereotypes of photographers or managers or whomever trying to take advantage of a situation. It is up to you as a person and a model to clearly define yourself so that stereotypes are not made or given.

        

LCN: Have you had to pass up any opportunities due to your morals and ethics?

BRIT: I have a no-nonsense approach to business. I look for companies that have an outstanding reputation for being professional and tasteful not only on set but also behind the scenes. I work hard to stay on top and beat out the competition and I expect the companies I collaborate with to uphold the same position.

LCN: What do you do to relax or to have fun?

BRIT: I love to go back to Chicago and spend time with my family. A little R&R with them is just what I need to get myself back on track after a few stressful months of working. I also love to travel, shop, try new foods, and drink moscato with my friends.

LCN: What is the wildest party you ever hosted?

BRIT: Chris Browns party during All Star Weekend at Blvd3

LCN: Describe a party in the Playboy Mansion…

BRIT: Hot girls, hot girls, hot girls.. grotto need I say more..

LCN: Nope (laughs). Every girl wants an honest guy. How can you tell if a guy is honest?

BRIT: I don’t. I don’t have any special powers more than the next girl.

LCN: Are you the honest type?

BRIT: Honesty is the best policy

LCN: How do you like being romanced?

BRIT: I like a chase and I like it on the rough side...don’t take me to dinner to impress me go find a way to make me jealous… I’m sick I know. (smiles)

LCN: What pisses you off?

BRIT: Traffic when I’m late to catch a flight.

LCN: Let’s do something different since you’re in the hot seat; when I drop a name give me four words describing that people associated with your network.

Hugh Hefner: Smart kind loving wise

Howard Stern: Intelligent genius hilarious guy

Jennifer Williams (Basketball Wives): Strong independent wise woman

Barack Obama: First Black President ever

Kanye West: Kanye mother fucking West

Derek Rose: MVP, MVP, MVP

Kobe Bryant: Smh no comment

Oprah Winfrey: I want her bankroll

Brittany Ireland: The next it girl

LCN: If you had to choose one model to do a girl on girl shoot with, who would it be with and why?

BRIT: I love fellow Playboy Model Tierra Lee. She is so cute and so much fun to be around! We would create miracles in a shoot together!

LCN:What’s your current relationship status? BRIT: Single, independent and free !

LCN: What would it take to win Brittany over?

BRIT: Good question, I don't know lots of laughter, pizza and candy probably

LCN: Do you have any secret weaknesses or guilty pleasures?

BRIT: Cheese pizza and Nintendo Wii

LCN: Do you have any secret fantasies?

BRIT: Of course who doesn’t.. (smiles)

LCN: What’s the wildest thing you’ve ever done?

BRIT: Oh hell, I do “wild” stuff all the time. I wouldn’t even know where to begin with this one. Just know my life has no boundaries and I will try anything once. I like to live life on the edge.

LCN: What’s the kinkiest item you own?

BRIT: Hmm can you define kinky…

LCN: What’s the sexiest thing that you’ve ever done for your man?

BRIT: Ha, No comment.

LCN: What’s your biggest turn on and turn off?

BRIT: I love cocky, confident men who aren’t afraid to be a little rough and tell me like it is. I can’t stand douche-bag Jersey Shore type boys with huge egos and over gelled hair always known as Mike the Situation.

LCN: What’s one thing about yourself that everyone should know?

BRIT: I do what I want all the time so as long as you don’t ever try to tell me what to do, hold me back or restrict me, were golden.

LCN: What would the average person say about you?

BRIT: Ha, I’m not sure…when people meet me they tell me they are so surprised I’m so down to earth. I guess they are expecting me to be some kind of Jessica Simpson diva bitch.

LCN: (Laughs) What wouldn't you mind doing for the rest of your life?

BRIT: Traveling around the world promoting my brand and positive energy!

LCN: What advice would you give young models looking to step into this industry?

BRIT: Don’t make and immediate decisions.Think everything through so you know you are doing what is right for you. Take the right kind of chances and remember to stay true to yourself and READ THE FINE PRINT! Contracts are binding I learned that the hard way so make sure you READ it all and if you don’t understand it ask for help from a friend or family member.

LCN: What future projects do you have lined up?

BRIT: I have some awesome projects coming up, fashion campaigns, liquor campaigns, charity projects, television shows, magazine covers and radio endeavors. You’ll just have to stay tuned to see what I’ve got up my sleeve, but I can tell you in a years time I will have taken over this entire industry and become a household name mark my words (smiles)

LCN: Any shout outs?

BRIT: Deanna Morales WiteGold PR!!! I can’t be thankful enough for having such an amazing team behind me and my mommy and daddy of course! (smiles)

LCN: Thanks for the interview luv.

BRIT: Thank you! And, as always, it was my pleasure!