Gulf Coast Icons Energize Authenticity
They are chic. They are sassy. They are iconic in all the best ways. They are the models of the Bridging the Gap ICON photoshoot sponsored by the Junior Auxiliary of Biloxi-Ocean Springs and they are empowering, confident, and truly authentic.
The Bridging the Gap program aims to provide a memorable experience while advocating for diverse representation in media and fashion. The project selected nine Gulf Coast fashion models aged 13 to 18 for a photo shoot with local photographer Jessica Holland of Bloom Photography & Design at the House of the Jackson Pearl in Ocean Springs.
The second annual influencer collaboration includes Laura Drake, styled by Lee Tracy in Ocean Springs. Louis Niolet, styled by Golden Our Athleisure & Lifestyle in Ocean Springs. Trent Fedele, styled by Golden Our Athleisure & Lifestyle in Ocean Springs. Bailey Mainor, styled by Charisma in Ocean Springs. Zachary Basilio, styled by Coastal Roots Clothing Co. in D’Iberville. Alex Stewart, styled by Islander Outfitters in Ocean Springs. Madilynn “Madi” Payne, styled by La Sauce Style in Ocean Springs. Kambri Watts, styled by Cornerstone Boutique in Biloxi, and Mahogany Bishop, styled by Dime Store Diva Petite Boutique in Biloxi.
And there’s a lot scheduled for these iconic photos. Multiple shots of each model will be used in digital marketing media campaigns for the boutiques that lent time and fashions to fit and dress these fabulous models and will also be featured on posters and window hangings throughout each shop.
But that’s not all, an inaugural Krewe of Wonder Mardi Gras Ball is set for January 11. Bridge the Gap has partnered with the Order of Glaucus for the event as well as Embrace Abilities, a nonprofit organization in Ocean Springs that fosters an inclusive community for children and teenagers with diverse needs.
The Krewe of Wonder was created to shine a spotlight on the remarkable potential, strength, and individuality of children and teenagers with special needs and neurodivergence allowing them to celebrate friendship, inclusiveness, and the magic of Mardi Gras.
In addition, this spring, the Junior Auxiliary will host the inaugural Bridge the Gap fashion runway show with the same models plus a few additional ones.
Auxiliary members wholeheartedly believe marketing diversity can have a profound impact on the confidence of children and teenagers by validating identities, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting self-worth. The nonprofit volunteer group was founded in 1967, and members work closely with schools and other organizations throughout Biloxi, D’Iberville, St. Martin, Woolmarket, Ocean Springs, and Vancleave to enhance the lives of children through community projects and programs that help to meet emotional, physical, medical, financial, and educational needs.
The Junior Auxiliary gets lots of help with their annual programs from the Crown Club, which consists of young ladies who are high school juniors and seniors throughout the Coast. Club members recently helped the Junior Auxiliary host a Photos with Santa event and created a Christmas craft for children to complete while they waited in line. This next generation of auxiliary members also stocks Tiny Libraries with books that are featured in eight coastal public parks and are sponsored by the Junior Auxiliary.
For more information about the upcoming Junior Auxiliary of Biloxi-Ocean Springs events and programs or how to become a member, visit their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.
