Today we’d like to introduce you to Marline Ross
Hi Marline, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Spoiled Pleasures: As a part-time preschool teacher living with an invisible disability (Sickle Cell Anemia), I was inspired to create Spoiled Pleasures when COVID-19 closed down the school I was working at. I wanted to create products that focus on health & relaxation; so, what better way than to become an entrepreneur and make natural-based products that are child and pet-friendly. Spoiled Pleasures has now been around for over three years and has an online and market presence.
Modeling: People always told me I was photogenic. I would get random people asking me if I’d ever modeled before and that led me to reach out to modeling agencies and join modeling groups to learn “my” model walk and what type of modeling I wanted to do. Fifteen years later I have done modeling for clothing brands, runway, music videos, and commercials. I also have been published in two magazines (Edith & Mishka Beauty)
Acting: Acting honestly came about because I was shy growing up and I told myself I was going to force myself to get out of my comfort zone. So, I registered myself for a public speaking class and an acting class at Film Acting Bay Area (FABA). A few days into my first acting class I realized I loved being able to portray different characters. I now wanted to be on the big screen!
I decided to sign up for their certificate program which consisted of eight classes. I completed the certificate program in a little over a year. However, I was not done yet, I then enrolled in their casting workshops where I met renowned casting directors and agents such as Sara Isaacson, Jason Kennedy, and the STARS agency.
Some highlights of my career include landing roles in commercial projects for companies like Cisco, Chubbies, and Gametime, and featuring in films like “Sins of the Past” and “The Split.” One of my proudest moments came when I was cast for a PSA commercial on Sickle Cell Anemia, a disease that I live with and know all so well.
I’m currently working on these projects “Reckless Behavior” which you can find on Amazon Prime and “Best Friends Blues” which you can find on YouTube.
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?
While modeling and acting I would have doubts that I wasn’t the right body shape or my deliverance when acting wasn’t good enough. I later learned that agents look for differences and my personality is what continued to get me hired. As a business owner of Spoiled Pleasures, I struggled with marketing and increasing my social media presence. I had to learn how to promote my brand and how often to promote my brand and not just my brand but me too. The toughest struggle I face with modeling, acting, and being an entrepreneur is dealing with a pain crisis from my sickle cell. No matter how much planning I do, if sickle cell wants to attack my body, it will which can cause me to miss out on events.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a multifaceted individual who excels in diverse fields, primarily as a part-time preschool teacher, entrepreneur, model, and actress. My work embodies a blend of creativity, resilience, and advocacy, all of which contribute to my unique identity and brand. I specialize in creating inclusive and health-conscious products, while also excelling in modeling and acting. My diversity allows me to connect with a broad audience. My personal experiences, particularly living with sickle cell anemia, provide a unique perspective that resonates with my audience.
My proudest moments include launching Spoiled Pleasures in July 2019, where I successfully combined my passion for health and relaxation with an entrepreneurial spirit. Being cast in a public service announcement for sickle cell anemia, is a deep and personal highlight of my acting journey, landing roles in recognized commercial projects for reputable companies and appearing in films, showcasing my versatility as a performer has also been a proud moment for me.
What sets me apart from others is my resilience and advocacy. My journey is distinguished by my ability to push through challenges posed by my invisible disability. This resilience not only drives me in my professional endeavors but also inspires others facing similar struggles. My commitment to my personal growth, whether through taking acting classes or learning about marketing for my business, demonstrates a dedication to improve and innovate, setting a strong example for others in my field(s).
Summary of what I do:
1. Entrepreneurship: I created “Spoiled Pleasures,” a business that specializes in creating natural-based products focused on health and relaxation. My products are thoughtfully designed to be child and pet-friendly, reflecting my commitment to safety and well-being.
2. Modeling: With 15 years of experience, I’ve carved out a niche in the modeling industry, participating in various projects including photoshoots, runway shows, music videos, and commercials. My photogenic nature and unique charisma have led me to be published in notable magazines.
3. Acting: As a passionate actress, I have taken significant steps to develop my skills, completing a comprehensive acting certificate program and participating in casting workshops. I embrace acting as a means of personal expression and creativity, with experience in commercial projects and films.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I like best about Oakland, California is our history and what I like least about it is the high crime rate and homelessness.
Pricing:
- * candles range from $12 to $26
- Bathbombs $6
- Massage oil $15
- Vegan lip balm $5
- Sage sticks $5
Contact Info:
- Website: https://spoiledpleasures.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/spoiled_pleasures
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063737734494
Image Credits
Credit to:
@b_khu_photography on Instagram
@alxmmphoto on Instagram
@captured_by_smoove on Instagram
