The Making of an Actress: A Work in Progress

Here is the final installment the blog collaboration with my agency, Exxcel Model & Talent, Inc., about my previous trip to LA and the progression of my career. You can find it here on over on Exxcel's blog, Exxcel EDGE. 

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https://exxcelblog.wordpress.com/2016/04/01/reflection-a-work-in-progress/


​Watching the palm trees above my head as they sway in the breeze, I can’t help but recall the incredible; yet short journey that had helped bring me to the Golden State in the first place. Reminiscing on my first “test” photoshoot coordinated by Exxcel, I was completely unaware at the time of the full magnitude in which my career was headed. I had not yet seen the obvious: my lifelong dreams were quickly becoming a reality and bound for “the fast track”. Working with photographer Udo Spritzenbarth and Celebrity Stylist Ty-Ron Mayes, was one of the most memorable, exciting experiences I have ever had! Coming face-to-face with first class professionals who were part of the team that help to make Tyra Banks; “Tyra”, was in itself fascinating! Being a novice in the industry, that day alone had already surpassed my expectations. At the time, I never imagined that it was only the beginning for an amazing journey to come!
As I continue to rewind and re-cap the events that brought me to where I am now, I am grateful for the encouragement and the opportunities that were given to me through Exxcel Model & Talent. To “dream” is the easy part, but to “do” is much more difficult. The support system and the direction I received from the agency helped pave the way for me to be able to travel from a minuscule town in Upstate New York to major cities like NYC and Los Angeles. Preparation, training and networking are all a vital part of taking the necessary steps to becoming a professional actor.  It was more than evident that I needed to hit the big city in order to accomplish all three. It was in those cities that I actually began to fall in love with my craft. Not to mention how much I enjoyed meeting numerous other talent that were also pursuing the same interests, just as I was. A breath of fresh air and enthusiasm was always around every time we get together as a group.
With every day, week and month that has passed by, I can see the progress I am achieving as my skills are sharpening and my actor’s toolbox is constantly becoming full! This, however, could not be possible without sacrifice and dedication on my part and having the support of Exxcel’s President, Susan Lunetta.
It seems that each time I get a call from Susan, my life just gets a little bit better! The entire Exxcel team has helped me to build a durable foundation by providing me with theframework to succeed.  These lessons, thoughts and ideas I will take with me forever.
I also greatly respect and appreciate the work instilled in me by acting coach Dennis LaValle.  Being able to join in on such a progressive environment where people are truly creating their destiny was almost too good to be true. Meeting his students in training, as well as part of his list of superstar alumni, was to say the least, thrilling! Looking back on it now, it just doesn’t seem real yet. It’s just WOW! My next thought is onward and upward!


Be sure to stay tuned for more posts in collaboration with Exxcel Model & Talent, Inc. x
-Samantha Baldwin 
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Myself with Julie Andrews' imprints at the TLC Chinese Theatre

Working with stylist, Ty-Ron Mayes 

Dennis LaValle coaching one of his students