Meet Ariel Carrillo | Published Model & Content Creator

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

Hi Ariel, why did you pursue a creative career?

I pursued more of a creative career because I felt like it made my soul happy. My “9-5” job is more procedural, stressful, and fast paced. It doesn’t allow me to express myself.

With modeling and creating content, I can do and be anyone my imagination can think of. I can express every emotion and vibe I’m feeling, there is no limit to what I can create. If I’m feeling confident and a little spicy, I’ll set up a boudoir or glam shoot. If I’m feeling a little moody, I’ll wear something edgy or bold to express that feeling. If I’m feeling creative or nostalgic, I’ll set up a cosplay shoot of my favorite cartoon or superhero character.

Modeling has been an amazing outlet and has opened the door to so many opportunities. I’ve worked with various brands and collaborated with wonderful individuals. I haven’t “made it” yet, but I truly enjoy what I do and I love sharing my content with the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In my opinion, I feel like modeling is more of a mental game. I think most people believe that someone who models or creates content must be so confident and fearless all of the time. That’s definitely not the case with me. I have been doing this for about two years now and although it has gotten a lot easier, I still struggle with confidence and insecurities. There is always a voice questioning if I am good enough, pretty enough, or posing well enough every time I get in front of that camera. Despite that tiny annoying voice, I do it anyway and there has not been a time where I regretted it.

If I had to choose one thing to say to the world, I would say that I truly hope that you, whoever you are, follow your dreams. Don’t let age, sex, race, or insecurities stop you. I’ve had so many people tell me how they would love to do this or that, but can’t because x, y, and z. World, just do it! I promise you the fear that’s holding you back is blocking you from your biggest blessings. We only have one life to live, our time is so limited so why not spend whatever time you have left to do something you enjoy. Go to that gym, start that hobby, eat at that restaurant, wear that outfit, post that video!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

That’s a great question! My sisters and BFF have made it our mission to try all of the best food spots at least once. Most of the time we go to family friendly places or family cookouts, but one of our favorite “treat yourself” spots is Bourbon & Bones. I LOVE their steak and the chill vibe. It’s definitely a perfect date night location too.

When we are on a budget, but want some amazing food we go to LoLo’s Chicken & Waffles. Girls night out consists of food and drinks almost always at various spots in Scottsdale. Mama Por Dios has the best atmosphere and fun vibe for birthdays and celebrations.

When it comes to everyday eating, tacos are my all time favorite! I could eat tacos and flautas every single day! The best tacos come from street trucks and mom and pop establishments. As of recently, I find myself craving the carne asada tacos from a small spot in Mesa called Tacos Tijuana.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

First and foremost, I wouldn’t be where I am today with my modeling or mental health without my family. Before I started modeling, my mental health wasn’t the greatest. I was thriving on the outside because I had a stable job and the love of my family, but I was so insecure on the inside.

My immediate family and friends would always push me to pursue things that interested me such as beauty and fashion which prompted me to start up my YouTube channel. I was horrified of the idea of posting myself on the internet and although I don’t keep up with it now, it was something to mark off of my fear list. Once I conquered my fear of rejection and judgment, I began to pursue other avenues including modeling.

I remember during my first year of really putting myself out there I signed up for a competition where the winner would be featured on the cover of a popular magazine. In order to win I had to get my friends and peers to vote for me regularly for several months. I didn’t win the competition, but I ended up gaining so much more than any cover could ever offer. I had people I haven’t spoken to in years voting for me. I had family and friends voting for me. I had complete strangers voting for me and not just once or twice, but literally everyday! Some people spending their own hard earned money to purchase more votes for me. It was so eye opening and inspiring.

So if any of you are reading this, I want you to know that I am in such a good place mentally because of you all. You all showed me that there was so much love and acceptance at a time where I was so afraid of judgment and rejection. You all showed me that I have so many people in my corner rooting for my success. It makes me so emotional discussing this because I truly felt so much love and positivity, it definitely inspired me to keep grinding to tackle dreams and goals I have set for myself.

Website: https://linktr.ee/Prissy_Ariel

Instagram: Instagram.com/_officialprissyariel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ariel.m.carrillo

Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/PrissyAriel

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@prissyarielcosplay?_t=8UoTJETwY4h&_r=1

Image Credits
Harlan Cone R&R Amore Productions Lyman Locket Upstage Photography Shawn-Auston Johnson InfiniteSoulImagery Joseph Lalonde Shutters Up Photography Matt Conrad