They were among the companies that consistently invested in allowing women of all sizes to experience next season's fashions, or this season's newest additions, without making us guess what they'd look like in our size!

As one of the first Twin Cities plus-size runway and print models, I appreciated their impact in helping diminish differences based on size.

I've since retired from modeling, but am proud to be among the pioneers who BOLD!ly stepped up and effected change, while developing lasting relationships, in the fashion industry.

My purpose was not so much related to being considered a model (I barely wore make-up through college!) and certainly was not based only on size, but in a small yet significant way, we helped advance the reality that we can all feel more comfortable and confident in simply being ourselves, looking and feeling our best.

I'll never forget modeling among the more typical-size models during the intermission at a Coffee Concert at Orchestra Hall years ago. The audience was gracious as usual, and then when they saw plus models join the other models on the stage together, in similarly beautiful fabrics and designs, there was an unexpected standing ovation.

I knew at that moment progress was made not only in the world of fashion, but in women's everyday lives regardless of size.

The BOLD! Factor in action...the most courageous act of BOLD!ness is to be who you are…not waiting till the time (or your size) is right to experience life!

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