Suzanne Stokes Playboy Playmate
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Suzanne Stokes
twitter.com/ssmeow
What made you want to become a model?
Growing up in the sunshine state of Florida and seeing all the beautiful girls on the beaches and in the magazines put thoughts in my head. It really inspired me and made me realize that I could become a model someday. And I secretly hoped to pursue that goal.
How did you first get into the industry?
I started modeling when I was a little girl for local clothing stores and newspapers in Naples, FL. I then went to a modeling school when I was about 13. I have always loved the business, and when they ask you in school what you want to be, I would say I wanted to be a model and an actress. I knew I wouldn’t have much of a modeling career in Naples or the Everglades, so I decided to send out my photos and resume to some talent and modeling agencies in Miami to see what would happen. I was contacted by more than 20 agencies and they were all calling me to go on casting calls. And luckily, I was fortunate enough to book my very first casting for a Ruffles commercial. I think early success really helped push me to keep going and to pursue my dreams.
How did you go about becoming a Playmate Model?
I started modeling and booking commercials in Miami when I was about 17 or 18. It was a very exciting time. I went to the PlayboyMillennium Search Bus in Miami. I wore a fishnet bikini with butterfly patches on the nipples and I think I caught their attention! I was so happy when they called me back and asked me to go to Chicago to do a test shoot. Then when Hef personally approved my shoot, I started my playmate pictorial shoot. And I went to LA when my issue hit the newsstands to do PR and promotion asPlayboy’s “Playmate of the Month” in February 2000. Getting on that Playboy bus was one of the best decisions I made!
What did that feel like?
I’ve always thought Playboy is a classy magazine! And I believe that it is a form of art, and it is a personal expression. Marilyn Monroe set the bar as the first centerfold. I feel very honored to be in that company. Overall, I remember it just feeling like it was the right fit for me and my career. It was my calling; I was very excited about it, but I was also still a bit nervous in a way. Everything was moving so quickly and happening so suddenly.
What other notable modeling gigs have you done?
I have done commercials in Venezuela and Costa Rica, and Heineken Beer spots in the Dominican Republic. I also did a lot of international commercials and print work, and loved the opportunity to work all over the world. That’s what I want to continue doing now. I’ve been featured on many magazine covers and in many different magazines and catalogs for anything and everything.
I am very excited about launching my acting career. My first lead role in an independent film called Off Hollywood, which is currently wrapping up. It should debut sometime in the next year.
What’s left for you to achieve in the modeling business?
I am currently focused on my business career and modeling jobs that come my way. I feel that my experience has led me to where I am now in my consulting business, Twist Consulting, which is very exciting. I’m launching a lingerie line and creating a new nightclub in Chicago and Vegas.
What are your favorite characteristics about yourself?
I would have to say being positive, caring and giving with all my heart. I just like to be happy and I like being a little ray of sunshine for everyone; it makes them feel better and that makes me happy.
What’s the best part about being a model? What about the worst?
The best part is the clothes! And, of course, all of the cool people you meet. I’ve always loved traveling, so getting to go to so many new places is really exciting, and I’m looking forward to more traveling this year. Honestly, I’ve had such great experiences that I can’t think of anything that’s not 100 percent positive!
You’re also a businesswoman, how did you go about getting your foot in the door?
I have a very unique set of life experiences that took me all over the world. I have seen and done more than most people will do in two life times! Thankfully, I’ve got a lot of energy!
My unique perspective creates the real value behind Twist Consulting. My clients see the benefit of utilizing a very creative brain that has experienced many cultures and industries, especially my career in entertainment and modeling. Lately, I have been applying my ideas to many different businesses. I’m promoting nightlife, premium alcohol brands, lingerie, TV production and music. I look at the business model and the consumer in a very different way, and it usually leads to some very fresh ideas. For example, with the Palms’ nightlife venue, I came up with the idea of a more interactive club experience that would include the patrons into the programming through costumes, roving magicians and sexy shows. I find the current format of expensive DJ’s bottle service and sparklers flat boring. I am a big fan of the music and love the DJ’s, but I think it is time to add in some more interactive fun amenities as well.