AURA Models | THE FACE BEHIND THE FRAME: CONNIE More. Co-Founder | Director

5 Questions To One Of The A-Team Directors at AURA Models

In an industry often defined by fleeting moments and shifting trends, some individuals leave a mark that lasts far beyond the flash of a camera. One such force is Connie More, the co-founder and director of AURA Models. With a career that has graced countless runways, billboards, and international campaigns, she’s more than a familiar face—she’s a visionary shaping the future of fashion representation.

Balancing business acumen with creative flair, Connie has helped build AURA into more than just a modeling agency—it’s a dynamic platform for talent, diversity, and innovation. In this candid conversation, we step behind the curtain to explore her journey from model to mogul, the values driving her leadership, and a few humorous truths about what it really takes to run the show.

01 | FROM MODEL TO LEADER

What inspired you to go from being in front of the camera to leading an entire agency behind it?

I got too many artists (models)  asking me to help them get to my level of success. I ran away from it for so long because I didn’t want to be responsible for anyone’s setback if their career didn’t take off. 

Natalia Fernandez, my angel, got me comfortable through our working relationship at SAFW, and I felt safe to do it with her….she’s a great leader and mentor, a fearless woman who faces challenges head on. And her experience in the industry cushioned me. Her family is also in the industry, it made sense to do it with them because of their passion and hardworking nature.

02 | THE CHALLENGE OF BEING A FEMALE LEADER

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a female leader in both the modeling and business worlds?

Money!! People don’t want to pay for anything. Negotiating your rate is insane, they don’t care what your rate is. They put down their budget and you’re expected to work around their budget and still produce excellent results.                                      

Not being credited/acknowledged for your contribution to the project. 

03 | WHAT SETS AURA APART?

How does AURA Models differ from traditional agencies—and what values do you fight to uphold?

AURA is a breath of fresh air!! It’s an exclusive boutique agency that handpicks its models.

We’re spoiled with communication, everything is transparent. 

 It educates our models about standard etiquette, work ethic and self awareness and value you bring to the creative team. Gives proper insight and guidance on the different categories in the modelling space. Financial education as well, which is a bigger concern. The dynamics of modelling needs you to know about rates and hours. Aura is well balanced. 

Unfortunately with traditional agencies they sign you and leave you out in the jungle without any training or knowledge of what you’re getting yourself into. That’s why everyone thinks they can model and end up not getting gigs because they don’t know any conduct. 

Listen to your booker-Fede. Who’s a maestro in negotiating contracts and rates. And you’ll be a successful model. 

04 | IF AURA WAS AN ACCESSORY

If your agency were a fashion accessory, what would it be—and why?

Shoes! I love shoes…it’s evident I love shoes by how my feet looks I got bunions, I got corns 😂😂

You must be able to walk in all kinds of shoes.

 Aura makes sure that you’re a PRO. You excel in all categories of modelling! 

05 | THE GLAMOROUS DISASTER

What’s the most glamorous disaster you’ve had to fix as a director—heels broken, model missing, or something even crazier?

There’s always something you have to deal with, bad attitude from models, late coming models, an emotional model, an anxious model. In this position you can even be a babysitter. People come with their own issues and we must be able to accommodate them. Make them feel safe, at the end of the day we represent them.

What We Love:

At AURA Models, it’s not just about the frame—it’s about the vibe, the energy, and the fearless creativity that our team brings to every shoot. Whether they’re behind the camera or directing the entire production, our people are artists, innovators, and a little bit wild—in the best way.