“It’s my opinion that true happiness stems from hard work.” – Gretchen Young

  Welcome to Face Time. DFW Style Daily’s exclusive series goes beyond the cameras to get to know top local models and actors on a personal level. Why? Because there’s so much more to making it in an incredibly competitive industry than just a pretty smile and nice hair. Our interviews with Tracy Ripsin, Myles Crosby, Daniel Crouch, Maggie Parks, Deanna Cahill, Atti Worku, Tiffany Hendra, and many more, have captured the attention of thousands. We’ve proved, beyond a doubt, that our talented North Texans are among the most fascinating and accomplished in the country. Today’s model citizen is no exception to the rule. Born in on the other side of the Red River, Gretchen Young got to Texas just as soon as she could, as the saying goes. Read on to get to know this down-to-earth beauty, a real-life Girl Scout with a several jobs, a non-profit passion, and long-reaching life goals.   Name: Gretchen Young Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma Agency: Kim Dawson Agency (Talent) Notable Clients: Albritton Day Fine Jewelry, Saks Fifth Avenue, Galderma Skin Care  

  DFW Style Daily: At what age did you begin modeling? Were you scouted or did you pursue modeling as a career? Gretchen Young: “I was scouted when I was younger, but my parents weren’t really in favor of it at the time. Eventually, I pursued modeling on my own. My first job was at 16, and I started modeling full time when I was 24.”   Your career has grown to include acting and hosting, as well. Tell us about a favorite recent hosting or acting job that put your talent to the test. “I am very new to acting. When I first starting going to acting auditions, it didn’t take long for me to realize I was a very novice actress, so education was necessary. My plan is that, when I am a stronger actress, I will travel to Los Angeles for a few months during a pilot season. In the meantime, I am working hard at being involved in film and commercials in the Dallas market. “Hosting is something I have always wanted to try, and I was presented with the opportunity to host a trivia night at the popular Dubliner Irish Pub. I tried it, and I loved doing it, so I am expanding my hosting skills to additional trivia nights and events around town. A host’s ability to think on her feet is crucial, and it’s a skill I always find fun to exercise.”  

  What is your dream assignment, in any of your areas of focus? Who would be your dream client? “Gosh, I have so many! I would love to model for Lululemon or Athleta, because I am a life-long athlete. Acting-wise, I envision anything from Michelle Monaghan’s character in True Detective, to Angelina Jolie in Changeling, to Amy Poehler in Parks and Recreation. Dark comedy and psychological thrillers are genres that always pop into my mind when I am asked this question. Finally, I have been working on a web series called The Impractical Mind of James. It’s moving slowly but surely, and hopefully I will be able to share it with the world soon.”   What is the craziest, silliest, or most unusual thing you have ever done on assignment? “I once had to lay on the ground wearing a protective mask, pasties, and nude underwear, while someone poured sand all over me, for a Galderma Skin Care industrial film!”  

  Tell us three facts about yourself that might surprise us! “First, I work for a wonderful brand called BuDhaGirl. It is a mindful glamour company, and I like to look at it as a lifestyle. The brand is about turning your routines into rituals, and you can learn all about it on the BuDhaGirl website. “Second, I finished the Girl Scout program when I was 17, and I am a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient. It is the highest-ranking achievement within the Girl Scouts of America program, it is one of my greatest accomplishments, and it definitely shaped who I am today. Third, I love the NFL and I can’t wait for football season.  There is nothing like it!”   Shifting gears, let’s focus on your non-profit work. Tell us about REACT and why the mission of the organization is close to your heart. “REACT is an amazing non-profit that works with individuals living with spinal cord injuries. The organization gives people hope again. It gives them the encouragement, self confidence, and the help that they need to live the life they want. REACT has experienced a lot of success - people are actually walking again. It is incredible. Later this month, on August 22, the organization is throwing a benefit party, and tickets are selling fast! Visit the REACT Facebook page for more information.”  

  Finally, we have to ask, how do you keep all these aspects of your career and life in balance? “I make sure to take care of my mind and body.  I get up early, work out, eat right, and get enough sleep to keep myself going. I also do what I want to do and have a lot of fun doing it. I can honestly say that everything I am involved in is for me, and everything I have accomplished has been because of my hustle. It’s my opinion that true happiness stems from hard work, and I am working in areas of life that interest me, so my work doesn’t feel like work at all.”   All images, courtesy of Gretchen Young.