Conversations with Ariel Carrillo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Carrillo. 

Hi Ariel, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Modeling, creating an online presence, and putting myself out there online and in magazines definitely did not happen overnight. I’ve always battled with my own insecurities. My weight and size were my biggest insecurities and kept me from pursuing anything that drew attention to me. Modeling was something that continued to call out to me, but it went unanswered until recently. After years of living with my insecurities, I decided to take action and make some changes mentally and physically. I started paying attention to my nutrition, going to the gym, and making sure I was giving my body the fuel it needed to gain healthy weight. I started practicing positive affirmations which continues to help me when I’m struggling mentally. Eventually, I started feeling confident. Fast forward to 2020 when the world experienced horrible losses due to Covid. The events that occurred opened my eyes and forced me to realize how short life truly is. With the support of my family, I decided I wasn’t going to continue to let fear or insecurities run my life. I told myself that I would do EVERYTHING my fear stopped me from doing. I started with creating my YouTube channel. I remember recording videos in 2018 and never posting them. I was so focused on the negativity and judgment I may receive; I didn’t think of the love, support, and positivity I would receive. I started making videos on hair and makeup and eventually collaborated with some really cool brands. After getting my feet wet with YouTube, I decided to work on my modeling portfolio. I got to network and collaborate with great photographers, artists, and cinematographers to create my portfolio which led to paid photoshoots, music videos, and brand ambassador work. I’ve been on this journey for almost two years now and I know there is so much to do and achieve, but it feels amazing to look back and know that I am overcoming my fears and insecurities every single day.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a rough road, but there were a few obstacles to overcome. I’ve been scammed and taken advantage of, but I’ve also been blessed with many different opportunities. The hardest obstacles were created by me. I tend to judge myself and feed into my insecurities. It still takes a lot of courage and regular pep talks to myself every single time I’m booked for a photoshoot, casting, or music video, but I feel proud that I no longer let my insecurities and fear discourage me. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Someone once told me I was the modern-day female version of Clark Kent/Superman and I felt that haha. Ariel Carrillo is reserved and shy. Ariel Carrillo is a wife, mother, and full-time certified paralegal who works for an amazing fast-paced law firm with offices all over the United States. Then there is my social media presence & alter ego, Prissy Ariel. Prissy Ariel is all of the above but adventurous, outgoing, and very very extra. Prissy Ariel is an internationally published model, brand ambassador, and recently casted as a show host. 

No matter what I have going on in life, my family will always be what I’m most proud of. I have an incredible support system and I’m truly blessed to have my family and friends. 

I think what sets me apart from others is my heart. I treat everyone with kindness and respect. I try to be positive at all times and I truly love to see other people win. 

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson learned is the importance of taking that first step. If you want something, you have to take that first step towards your goal and go after it. For years I did nothing so nothing happened. As soon as I decided to make moves, god provided the doors. It was just up to me to have the courage and faith to open them. Another huge lesson for me was learning the power of our minds. I challenge everyone reading this to practice positive affirmations for 30 days. See how your perception of yourself and life change. 

Contact Info:

• Email: ArielMissPriss@gmail.com
• Website: Linktr.ee/Prissy_Ariel
• Instagram: instagram.com/_officialprissyariel
• Youtube: YouTube.com/c/PrissyAriel

Image Credits
Jim Nordstrom
David Skuse
Lyman Locket
Upstage Photography
Joseph Lalonde, Jr.
Shutters Up Photography
Shawn-Auston Johnson
Infinite Soul Imagery