Feature of the Month

BBW VEGAS BASH

History in the making 10 year anniversary

Exclusive with the Founder JoAnn

 Joann and her Husband Darwin

6 day VEGAS BASH PASS was raffled this month.

Compliments of Joann

     "Wonderful!"  "Fun!" "Exciting!" "A life changing experience."  "The best event ever."  "It is my vacation every year." 

     These are some of the comments I have received when I mention the words VEGAS BASH.  Vegas Bash is celebrating 10 years this year.  News crew will be attending because it is known that Vegas Bash is the ultimate in Plus Sized Parties.

     Joann and her husband Darwin have built this annual celebration from 26 attendee's into the THOUSANDS, all by word of mouth.  Pool parties, seminars, dance parties, group speakers, Fashion, clothing companies.  You name it  and Vegas Bash has it.  They are called THE SUPER BOWL OF BASHES!

     This is an event that cant be missed, Book now!

www.bbwnetwork.com

Interview with the Founder of Vegas Bash JoAnn

LargeInCharge.com: What is your name?

JoAnn also known online as Fyre (pronounced Fire)

LargeInCharge.com: Where are you from and what is your current Location?

I was born on an Army Base in Japan, have lived all over the country, recently moved from Las Vegas to a town about 50 miles away called Pahrump.

LargeInCharge.com: Do you consider yourself a Person of Size?

Yes I do, I’ve been fat pretty much all my life.

LargeInCharge.com: Tell us about your Event for People of Size?

My husband and I host the annual BBWnetwork BBW Vegas Bash www.bbwnetwork.com

LargeInCharge.com: How did you begin Planning this Event?

I started the BBWnetwork about 12 years ago, at that time we were a group of people on IRC chatting and getting to know each other.

About 2 years into all the talking and meeting new friends, we thought it would be great to be able to actually meet each other face to face.

A get together was planned, we chose Vegas as the location because of the accessibility and pricing of flights and hotels. Plus you get Las Vegas too!

At the first “Bash” there were 26 of us, we sat by the pool all weekend, talked and just had fun. Our weekend ended with “Let’s do this again”

The second year Bash had 90 people, third year it jumped to 200 people… This year will be the 10th Anniversary of the Vegas Bash and we expect 1200 people!!

LargeInCharge.com: Did you form a company or company name?

We chose the name BBWnetwork, since it best describes who and what we are. The name is now trademarked.

www.bbwnetwork.com and host the annual BBWnetwork BBW Vegas Bash

LargeInCharge.com: If you formed a company, do you have a motto or slogan; and what does it mean?

Our Philosophy is the first thing you see when you go to our site:

“It is our philosophy that all people are valuable and productive citizens of society regardless of size.
By developing and acknowledging self-esteem, self-love, pride and self-acceptance of who we are

It is our intent to reflect positive images onto others.
Thus, the ultimate promotion of Size Acceptance.”

Our Vegas Bash Slogan is:

“All this and Vegas too…”

Our Mega Bash Agenda this year runs almost around the clock for 6 days... so it’s definitely “All this and Vegas too…”

LargeInCharge.com: Do you have a website? If so what is your website name?

Yes we do. www.bbwnetwork.com

LargeInCharge.com: Do you have a team of people who you work with? If so what made you pick them to work with?

Actually my husband and I plan and work the entire Bash. We price the Bash down to the lowest cost possible, this puts us in a position where everyone who attends has to pay, we don’t feel it right to ask paying guests to “work” the Bash so do everything ourselves.

We have always done everything in the past, from heat pressing all the Bash bags that took weeks (now outsourced), to making the name tags, centerpieces, games, dice, contracts, room blocking, hiring security, contacting people and all the planning and details to make the Bash happen.

We have no committees.  Every year we have many people who offer to help, but our usual response is “just go have fun”.

We cover and work all the logistics of the Bash ourselves. At the same time I should mention that we base our Bash on a community effort so have many people who help contribute time and other parts of themselves to share with everyone. Dance lessons, seminars, etc…

You will see us personally at every event; we fully understand the Vegas Bash is an investment way beyond the registration fee for our guests. It’s essential to us that everyone has a great time and walks away with a WOW feeling.

LargeInCharge.com: What made you decide to start planning your event?

The actual “events” and Agenda started coming into play when we realized attendance kept multiplying every year.

The idea of just sitting around the pool and talking became a thing of the past. We knew things had to be added and changed.

LargeInCharge.com: How long have you been holding this event?

This will be our 10th Anniversary BBWnetwork BBW Mega Bash. In celebration we wanted to throw a Bash that would Top anything ever held in the past.

With our Bash Agenda and added Club Nights, Midnight swimming, anticipated attendance, we believe this will be the Worlds Largest, Multi-day Event in BBW History.

It will also be the largest (in one location) collection of BBW Clubs and Dance Promoters in the world.

We’re pulling out all stops for this Mega Bash, It will probably not happen at this magnitude again until our 20th Anniversary.

So if anyone has ever thought about attending the Vegas Bash… This is the one NOT to miss!!

LargeInCharge.com: Tell us how your event has evolved with time?

After the first few Bashes ended, we would send out a questionnaire to everyone asking what they liked and would like to see in the future, we read every one of them, took notes, made changes, attendance continues to increase.

We have been continuously stunned at the ongoing growth of the Vegas Bash.

We never advertised in the past, no spamming, just word of mouth. An incredible honor for us.

LargeInCharge.com: What have you learned during this evolution that makes your events so popular?

That every guest is a person and counts. For those who have attended our past Bashes, you will see my husband and I continuously walking the events, taking a moment to meet as many guests as we can, asking questions, looking for feedback,  And most important... to actually listen to what you have to say.  We try to personally thank our guests for joining us, many of them year after year. Every event goes off on time, no confusions, just smooth sailing and lots of fun.

LargeInCharge.com: Why is your event different than others?

It’s all about the people. The BBWnetwork has been online for 12 years, we have a *huge* amount of exposure so base our Bash on community involvement. If you look at our Agenda, you’ll see groups and people from all over the country/world joining in to make this something really special.

Every year we help promote new companies, spotlight people adding to their local communities, local activity groups, other Bashes, etc…

I know a lot of this sounds like a bunch of words, but once someone comes and experiences the Vegas Bash, they find it’s all for real, the feedback is incredible and they come back the following year… with all their friends.

We’re always open to help promote anything size positive, just contact us and let’s talk!

LargeInCharge.com: When picking a location what do you look for?

Great question! As many left handed people already know the world is made for right handed people, we people of size know very well the world is made for thinner folks and not for size comfort.

When looking for a location we have a basic check list of things we look for. The different locations we scout get a rating of Size Positive or Size Negative and even Size Hostile.

Armless chairs, walking distances, stairs (yuck), ramps, accommodations, general atmosphere, privacy, size sensitivity training for employees, etc… we have quite an extensive list. Once we scout the location, we determine if it will meet our needs. We’ve yet to find a location that meets ALL of our criteria… but we do try.

Several of the locations we’ve scouted, have made improvements due to our suggestions, so if nothing else, we spread Size comfort awareness.

LargeInCharge.com: What is most important to you when you plan your event?

Our guests always come first, followed by comfort, fun, location, pricing, self esteem, privacy and community. Not in that exact order.

LargeInCharge.com: What do you consider some of the highlights of your past events?

We’ve had so many highlights over the past 10 years; it’s hard to pinpoint specific things.

Our Vegas Bash is a whole experience. It’s made to get people involved and just have fun in a comfortable size friendly environment.

We’ve had weddings at the Bash every year from the very first one, we’ve had people stand and renew their vows in front of everyone, we’ve had our guests attend the Bash and end up being on Good Morning America the following day, we have guests who come and find themselves modeling in our Fashion show, we’ve had the Big Girls Show come and film their version of the Dating Game at the Bash, we’ve had ChunkEBusiness premiere their National Tour documentary at our Bash, the list is endless.

We have so many highlights that aren’t so obvious come to light after Bash.

About a week after Bash the wave of email starts coming in… “this has changed my life”, “I felt like a normal person for the first time in my life”, “I’ve been inspired to start a local size positive activity group”, “was the first time I wore a bathing suit since I was a child”, “thank you for helping me start my new business”, “I opened my BBW Club because of attending your Bash”… such a great heartfelt response.

LargeInCharge.com: What are you plans for your 2006 event?

Wow... we have an incredible line up of activities and events planned. Please check out our Mega Vegas Bash link and always know that with everything listed... when you come to the Vegas Bash… you always get more. Just click and follow the Vegas Bash information links here: www.bbwnetwork.com

LargeInCharge.com: What should those who plan to attend be prepared for?

Fun, friends, smiles and laughter!!!

LargeInCharge.com: Is there any advice you can give to first time attendees?

It’s OK… everything will be fine.

Watching the transformation in our “newbie” guests is an incredible thing and cannot be seen enough!

We have many people who are taking the giant step of coming to the Bash for the first time by themselves.

There is usually no doubt who a newbie is when they walk up to the registration desk, newbie’s kind of have that deer in the headlight look, but days later we will see the very same person glide into our semi/formal dance on Saturday night with an entirely different look… confident, smiling, glowing, beautiful, and usually with a few newly made friends. A true sight to see!

LargeInCharge.com: Are there any special requests that should be made with booking to attend?

If you have any mobility concerns or issues, consider renting a scooter, we have a great company listed on our Bash Message Board. You will not be the only one on a scooter.

Consider asking for a handicap room as their bathrooms and shower accommodations are made for easier comfort.

We’re swamped with email asking questions, when we see a pattern of the same or similar questions, we’ll post an informational message on the

Bash message board. Keep your eye on the message board !

LargeInCharge.com: What would you say to those who are a bit nervous about attending?

Anything new or unknown can make anyone nervous so we do try to make those first step a little less intimidating.

LOTS of very friendly people attend, LOTS of very first time guests in the same position just as nervous.

All I can say is everyone who attends was a newbie at one time, by next Bash you’ll be a “veteran” basher answering and helping all the newbie’s

Who’ll be coming in 2007.

We don’t advertise, spam, don’t have a “crew” or marketing machine.

The Vegas Bash has grown to the largest multi-day BBW Event in History by word of mouth… so we figure the “word” must be good !!

Watch the message board, post questions and listen to BBW Radio www.bbwradio.com every Friday night as we answer questions, talk about the Bash as we count down to the 10th Anniversary BBWnetwork 2006 Mega Vegas Bash

LargeInCharge.com: How do people go about make the arrangements to attend?

Vegas Bash registration is quite simple, just go to BBWnetwork.com, we have a registration page set up with all the information.

LargeInCharge.com: What type of response have you gotten from the Big Community?

The response to our Bash has been nothing less than exceptional. Clubs and organizations from all over support and participate in the Bash.

Good Morning America and the New York Times called us the Super Bowl of Bashes and that was before announced our 10th Anniversary Mega Vegas Bash this year and added all the Club Nights!!

We’ve had groups ask to come in and see what we do to be so successful, we love having these folks attend and learn from us.

The BBWnetwork, supports all clubs, events, groups and companies that show real heart, soul and the desire to add to our BBW community.

On the downside, as we’ve gotten larger, we’ve attracted some companies we call Hit and Run Money Makers.

Some of these promoters find the need to schedule an event or party during our Bash events in hopes of drawing their attendance off the numbers of people who attend every year.

If they need the added exposure to help them start off or grow, it would have been a simple thing to contact us, but the fact is they never do.

On the plus side, it appears more and more of our attendees are recognizing and avoiding these on their own through past experiences.

LargeInCharge.com: What would you say is your proudest moment during your years planning this special event?

My mother telling me how proud she is of what I do.

I grew up with my mother not very understanding of my size, this was written about in more detail in the New York Times.

She started off not understanding what I wanted to accomplish with the Vegas Bash. So it was a defining moment in my life when she finally “got” it and told me how proud she was.

Mom has attended our Bash for many years now and loves every moment.

LargeInCharge.com: What words of encouragement would you give other people of size?

We had a message topic/thread on our message board where someone posted that they had put their life on hold for years waiting to Lose weight so they could finally start going out and living and asked if anyone else out there ever felt the same. I was surprised at the numbers of people who responded that felt, or had felt the same way.

My encouragement to all people of size is to get out and live life, every day you “wait” is a day gone forever.

There are other people in your own town sitting at home feeling the same way… start a local activity group or find out what might already exist in your area.

Bashes, clubs, events are popping up all over the country, if you can’t make the Vegas Bash, make a point to join in on one more local to you.

Even though each Bash has it’s own special flavor and flair, it’s core lies in the heart and soul of the BBW community.

Last year we fully supported and help promoted the new Ocean Bash in the Pacific Northwest, we openly supported the Austin Bash in Texas and even sent them a couple of hundred bash bags.

We’ve talked to promoters of a potential Laughlin Bash and Palm Springs Bash and have offered our support. The first step tends to be the hardest, I hear from people all the time that “we only have 50 people” or 10 people or such.

Doesn’t matter the numbers, if you make the people most important, others will seek you out.

Remember… our first Vegas Bash had only 26 people.

LargeInCharge.com: If you can sum your event up in one word, what would it be?

Empowering

LargeInCharge.com: Are you affiliated with any other Size Positive companies?

The BBWnetwork believes in networking our community so we have affiliation with many other organizations and groups.

Everything from local groups to having NAAFA host a seminar at our bash last year.

Even you Raqui, I’ve watch you over the years, continually give of yourself to the plus size community; it’s obvious this is in your heart and soul.

I believe Large In Charge is a great example of a Size Positive Company, we’re honored to have you network with us!!

LargeInCharge.com: What companies or people do you admire business wise and why?

I cannot begin to name them all so can only mention a few.

Terri Lynn Jacobs who recently passed away this year, Terri Lynn was a supersize bbw and close friend who believed in living life at any size. I would constantly marvel at her grace and dignity while dealing with rude and fat hostile people. With her positive outlook and love of life, Terri Lynn inspired me in so many ways.

Marsha Menard – Another loss to our community. Marsha went about her life spreading size awareness in her own special way. Although Marsha never had the chance to complete her life goal of walking across our country, her dedication to her Fat Girl Walking project was contagious and eye opening to many people.

Peggy and Darlene from ChunkEBusiness – spent a whole year traveling around the country making a documentary on bashes, events and various size positive activities. An inspiring pair of ladies, with an equally inspiring documentary that captures their year long odyssey.

LargeInCharge.com: What would you like to say to the LargeInCharge Readers, how can we support you?

Raqui, I’m just flattered you would take the time to share our Vegas Bash with your readers as I’m the one who bows to your ongoing dedication and hard work spreading size awareness and size acceptance. I’ve been an avid reader of Large In Charge for the past couple of years.

We would love to have everyone who reads this join us at our Mega Bash this year, but beyond support for us, we’d like to see your readers get out and take the steps to make a difference in their own lives or local community.

Thank you so much for this interview!

 

Joann I personally would love to thank you for this interview.  Vegas Bash being your natural born creation is an inspiration to all other BBW companies.  If you want something bad enough work hard for it and keep going.  This proves that you can accomplish anything if you really have the drive and commitment.  Thank you very much for your contribution to the Plus Sized Community.

Thank you for Reading The LargeInCharge Feature

Please send thoughts and comments to

articles@largeincharge.com

May Cover Model

Sassy

Interview with Sassy

LargeInCharge.com: What is your name?

Sassy: Its Sassy.

LargeInCharge.com: Where are you from and what is your current Location?

Sassy: I was born and raised in London, England where I still remain today, I love London it has everything you need and then some!

LargeInCharge.com: Can you give us some information about yourself (Age, Height, Size, Nationality, Marital Status, Children, etc.)?

Sassy: Lets start at the top! I’m single and don’t have children, I am just over 6ft tall, I am currently 26 but will be 27 end of march.

Size is a tricky one hehe ok here it goes UK sizing I am a 30, US a 28 or a 4x in some places or a 6x in others, I’m not even gonna try and work out European sizes! It can be tricky to workout what size from what store when shopping hahah

My weight is somewhere between 340-360lbs I don’t monitor my weight to know exact lbs.

My parents are Irish and Italian so I have dark looks with fair skin that burns sooooo badly in the sun!

I’m also 1 of 9 children and a aunt to 10!

LargeInCharge.com: Were you a big child, or did you gain weight later in life?

Sassy: Oh i was a big child from roughly about 8ish I would say I gained weight.

LargeInCharge.com: (If you were a big child) How did you feel growing up as a large child?

Sassy: I was actually made to feel bad by one sister she called me names all the time.

I felt different to the rest of my siblings because I was always on a diet or not allowed this or that and to me as a child not fully understanding why I wasn’t allowed I felt as if I was bad compared to the others.

I don’t blame my parents for it my mother is a bbw my father was a built man and both sides of their families are big, they were trying to pre-empt me being big.

LargeInCharge.com: (If you gained weight later in life) What caused you to gain weight and how did you feel about it?

Sassy: I did continue to gain weight growing up till it tapered off round about 16 years old.

I might of gained a little bit more between that time but no more than 30lbs, I think the constant yo yo dieting was a major factor growing up I was always on one thing or another none ever really working.

And being a child I wanted what I couldn’t have, so sneaked sweets and candy!

LargeInCharge.com: What made you decide to enter the LargeInCharge model search?

Sassy: Shall I say the vain answer that I am stunning? or I wanted a free night out answer? Hahahah no really why not?

I’m not ugly my body shape is good, a bit of a apple with arms, legs and a head sticking out of my round middle but not bad at all! Hahaha

No matter what you look like you should be proud of yourself and show it off!

LargeInCharge.com: Do you have any experience in modelling? If so tell us about what you have done.

Sassy: Well I do have my own adult site, so I guess you can say I do! You can contact me if your interested in finding out more ( sassyff@gmail.com ) Always loved to show off so it was natural for me to start adult modelling.

LargeInCharge.com: It takes a lot of confidence to model... What has given you the confidence you have?

Sassy: I would say my family and friends mostly, I learnt a long time ago I could sit at home and cry to myself about how fat I was and let it depress me and rule my life or get over it love myself and live my life not matter what I looked like or how much I weighed!

My friends and family are my backbone for whatever I do, I am a show off and open in everything I do so I don’t think it shocked them when I said I am thinking of doing this what do you think? And yes I asked first haha I know it might seem odd to some, a grown woman asking but I respect my families wishes with such things and lucky from me they were all for me doing what I wanted to do!

 LargeInCharge.com: Did you find it a hard journey to be accepted for your size?

Sassy: Not at all, I never really had outside problems no name calling as a kid never had problems finding a partner, never had issues with jobs or anything. The only problem I have is with clothes! Someone needs to get a clue and make more top end plus size ranges that are not big tents and flowery or ugly patterns! And bras!!! Being a F cup sucks and you know people are bigger than a 48 in inches come on!

I don’t want to wear a pointy granny bra I want sexy!

 LargeInCharge.com: Do you find acceptance among your family and friends?

Sassy: For sure but you know they don’t need to “accept” me, I’m not some freak they have to allow I’m just bigger than some people.

My family is half and half, half big half small, I’m not the only big person in my family.

LargeInCharge.com: What would you say inspires you most in life?

Sassy: hmmm inspiration for me comes in many forms for many things, family friends other models myself life! Everything really you take from life what you want!

LargeInCharge.com: What is your primary job?

Sassy: currently it’s my site, but I am looking into collage courses for web design and graphics which I hope to start soon.

LargeInCharge.com: How did you get into this line of work?

Sassy: I was looking on line for plus size models for clothing etc and came across a link looking for bbw ladies in settle so I contacted them, and they referred my to www.fat-forums.com to find UK people.

So I looked at the forums joined got to know people looked into modelling, after a while I become a member of staff there, and then decided I did want to have a site.

It actually took me just over a year and half to get my site open.

I don’t rush into things that have such a big effect on my life, like adult pictures would, I also advise everyone to think more than 2 weeks on the subject before doing it!

LargeInCharge.com: Do you find acceptance in the work force?

Sassy: hahaha well I do in mine of course! My co-workers are all either into plus sized ladies or one! haha so acceptance is kinda easy in the group!

In normal work environments I never had a problem, I was told woman shouldn’t do that more than I was told my size was a hinder, and when I had my security jobs my size actually worked in my favour to get me jobs woman were not sent to do.

LargeInCharge.com: What changes do you believe should take place for Large People in the work force?

Sassy: size friendly chairs!!! I hate going to a place with little chairs where the arms dig into your thighs!!

Have a choice or no arms on the chair! That’s my only grip, I don’t work in an office or other outside work environment to notice everyday problems, and never found my past jobs had any.

LargeInCharge.com: What do you think about the fashion industry for big sized clothing?

Sassy: in a word crap! It is getting better but it’s far too slow! I hate how expensive it is for anyone over a size 24! Paying 0n average £35 for a top or  even a T-shirt for someone over a size 24 is like £20! I mean come on now its not that much more clothe really so why can anyone up to a size 20 pay anything from £1-£8 for a top and suddenly over that size is double or even triple the money!

Another big pain in my ample backside is longer length pants!! I have a 33inch inside leg so standard pants of 29 or 30 do not fit me my pants look like they are waiting for an invite to meet my shoes!

I have lots of things to say about fashion you shouldn’t get me started!

Bra sizes, pointy bras over a certain size, unflattering patterns, shapeless clothing the list is endless! 

LargeInCharge.com: Where do you regular shop for your clothing?

Sassy: well for my normal everyday clothing I only have 2 choices in the UK really an on line store called fashion world, and a high street store called Evans.

I am at the top end of both places and some of the stuff doesn’t go up past a 26 so being a 30 sometimes 32 is a big pain.

For shoot clothing the only place I can shop really is www.biggalslingerie.com, an on line US store, only place I have found to carry my size and bigger!

I also buy off of other models when they sell their shoot clothing.

I have bought things from www.ladybwear.com but its more tailored for fetish wear, and I also get my stockings and hold ups from www.femmefataledesigns.co.uk and have some leather from their too.

But not really very many places!

LargeInCharge.com: What do you wish to see change with the fashion industry?

Sassy: variety, fabrics, cuts, price, and sizes! Its not unusual to be big now a days yet its still hard to find flattering, sexy tasteful clothing without paying a arm and a leg or hunting for hours.

Fashion designers need to see the bigger picture, and not just size up “normal” sizes but actually see the needs of a plus size woman and cut a more flattering pattern!

Also learn the body shapes for plus sized woman!

The apples like me who are all round in the body, for me wearing say a pair of jeans is a hassle I have a big belly so I need big jeans but my bottom isn’t as full so I have a baggy bottom area and a tighter belly area.

Or the pear shapes who have a big bottom so the back of the jeans are tight but also in some cases pulled down a bit showing more than they want to, or say in a skirt that is higher in the back because of the booty than the front.

Even small breasted woman who have big bellies to fit the bust the belly is tight, to fit the belly the bust is too loose or baggy.

There is not thought into the cuts for plus sized woman really they think one pattern type fits all.

LargeInCharge.com: What changes do you think will happen if plus sized modelling for men and women were to expand?

Sassy: well i would hope that the fashion designers would finally get that they make clothes for people normal everyday people!

Yes its ok to have some extreme dress you sell to some star for some red carpet event, but the other 99.9% of the time you are selling to the public, so cater to them!

Just because they higher waifs doesn’t mean that’s the only type of person who wears clothes!

Even your “normal” average woman is bigger than any model the fashion industry.

They call a size 12 plus size PA-LEASE! They need to stop that, that’s the kind of labelling and neat little boxing of certain people that make kids feel they need to starve to be beautiful!

Even a stunning waif is air brushed and slimmed down to look even smaller and even more flawless.

It’s an insane industry.

No matter what your size is the same thing runs through your mind when you see something you like “what will that look like on someone like me?” so why not show it on someone like you!

Whatever your size whatever your age, looks, show the clothes on who they are meant for.

If they did this, unrealistic ideals would be broken down and people would feel a lot more comfortable in their own skin.

Will it ever happen? Who knows!

LargeInCharge.com: Tell us some of the places you buy your clothing from.

Sassy: not sure if this is a mistake? I already answered this 3 questions up.

LargeInCharge.com: Look at Size acceptance five years ago... look at size acceptance now. What changes do you see?

Sassy: I don’t follow size acceptance movements or anything but for myself personally, its mainly clothing I notice a difference in.

The media still ridicules overweight people, doctors still discriminate against you being big, no one has really opened their eyes wide enough yet to make that much of a difference in my book it’s a very slow process, maybe in another 5 years there will be a remarkable difference.

LargeInCharge.com: What changes do you think will happen five years from now with size acceptance?

Sassy: who knows, hopefully it’s not a big joke to the media for a tacky line to say ooo look who’s fat, look who has cellulite.

Hopefully more plus size men and woman in movies and on tv, more plus sized models etc

Just showing a wider range of people the world is made up of instead of what big wigs think we should see and be like.

LargeInCharge.com: Tell us about your goals as far as modelling and other interests.

Sassy: well as far as my modelling goes I just hope to keep enjoying it as much as I do.

I have fun in my shoots and I enjoy thinking of a set up or outfit and seeing how I turn it into real pictures.

As for my real life goals, well I am old fashioned hehe finding a man who makes me laugh and who’s company I enjoy, having kids just having a happy life is enough for me, it was good enough for my parents its good enough for me!

LargeInCharge.com: Give us a sentence that inspires you.

Sassy: “be all you can be” I like this saying because its up to you how far you want to go or what you want to be whatever that is.

LargeInCharge.com: Can you tell us about an inspirational moment in you life that made you feel good about your size.

Sassy: a few years ago in collage a fellow student and fellow bbw was down on herself, on the outside a bubble party girl, as a lot of us are! Came to me and asked me how I did it, how I was so confidant and outgoing and relaxed with myself.

I explained to her that I just thought you know what my body size isn’t going to rule my life!

I told her how I learned to love me for me and I do actually love me a lot.

It wasn’t so simple and a lengthy conversation but I knew how she was feeling and was happy to listen, talk and help her see she doesn’t have to be chained to a life of shame because of her size.

It made me feel good to help her get over the view that she’s something less than normal and start enjoying herself and life.

LargeInCharge.com: Is there a person in your life that makes you keep going?

Sassy: not sure what I am meant to say here I am not ill where I have to keep going and be strong for the families sake.

I’m a normal woman just living my life, I just happen to have a slightly unusual job to most!

LargeInCharge.com: What advice would you give to other people of size who want to model?

Sassy: well firstly I have to say it’s not for everyone.

Just because you’re a plus sized person doesn’t mean you have what it takes.

Its Just like normal modelling you have to have some selling points to make it work.

I would advise thinking long and hard before going into adult modelling, you need to think how you will feel with your family knowing, or your children knowing, if its not your main job what you will do if your boss finds out or other co workers.

Also can you afford the expenditure for each and every shoot and advertising and equipment etc

No one instantly makes money on any of the sites sometimes it takes months even a year or more before your making any kind of money.

How will you feel in 10 years time? Say you’re like me and single no ties no kids and you do hardcore content how will you feel when you’re married with kids?

Also once its out there you can never delete it all, what you shoot will turn up even 30 years later how will you feel about this? Lastly I say never go beyond your own limits.

If you only want to do pin up/glamour type work stick with it don’t compromises your own boundaries to make money.

If after all of that you’re happy and have what it takes then just enjoy what you do!

LargeInCharge.com: What plus size figure do you admire?

Sassy: hmmmm well personally my mother is my most loved most inspiring bbw figure!

She’s supportive funny and not ashamed of her body at all.

In the industry there are a few models that both inspire me and help me in my own work.

I will keep it short and name just 2 models, first has to be Carrie from Carrie Land everything she embodies is outstanding, she works hard (far, far harder than me hehe) and this shows in her work, her ideas, outfits, everything.

She’s also one of the nicest people I have ever met who is willing to help you if she can, and even after being told pretty much daily how outstanding she is, she’s such a grounded person with no hint of vanity or diva like issues. (don’t like divas!)

The other model is Nicole from Big Butt Nichole this girl keeps me sane! And will help me out in a heartbeat if i need it, even to the point of hunting things down for me. She’s a smart cookie so it helps when I want to pick her brains hehehe

She also a extremely good friend who I trust, she’s outspoken and a strong woman, she takes flak for it at times but I love the fact it doesn’t wear her down or get to her.

She’s a strong level headed woman and i love her for it!

I know a lot of plus sized ladies to admire but I would be here all day if I listed them all!

LargeInCharge.com: What would you like to tell the LargeInCharge readers about yourself.

Sassy: I’m just a normal person who actually loves her job! I think they have learned a lot about me already if you haven’t guessed I love to talk heheh

LargeInCharge.com: Describe yourself with one word.

Sassy: zany hahaha

 

Again, Congratulations Sassy we are please to have you as a member of the LargeInCharge Cover Model Family!

 

Thank you to UberRussmanDesigns for Being Sassy's Design Sponsor

Thank you for Finding out more about our Cover Model

Please send thoughts and comments to

articles@largeincharge.com

Raqui's Spot

This months Subject:

Put your Breath to the Test

articles@largeincharge.com

Put your Breath to the Test

 

     The subject this month is a touchy one.  Those who suffer from bad breath try to hide it or don't realize it.  Those who have friends or loved ones who have bad breath don't know what to say to help them.  The rest of us are avoiding them. 

 

     I am not saying this to be mean.  I am saying it to be realistic.   It is the truth, you cant just go up to someone and tell them there breath stinks.   Well you can but no one wants to,  even if the person is a close friend.   No one want's to embarrass someone like that.  Bad Breath is a terrible thing that over half of American suffers from.  It is widely known that our mouths are neglected.  The Dentist is one doctor that many people skip.  Maybe it is because of fear,  maybe it is because our mouths are sensitive,  maybe we think our mouths are not important.

 

     I was scared of the dentist when I was a kid.  I had a lot of cavities from sweets, and not brushing my teeth before bed.   But as I grew up I learned that the Dentist is my friend.  I learned good brushing habits, and to date I have one cavity on my adult teeth.  I wasn't able to see a dentist for many years because of my size.  Finding someone to put me in there chair was a on going battle. But I have found a great dentist now and she told me that my teeth are in remarkable shape, especially since I hadn't seen a dentist in a long time.  Proper brushing habits and going to the dentist is the key.

 

     So this month I am going to give you all some information to figure out if you might have a breath problem and what to do if you do.

 

SOME FACTS:

• Did you know that your mouth has the most amount of germs on your body.

• Did you know that your mouth is dirtier than your anus.

• A dogs mouth is cleaner than your mouth.

• Some people need to see a Dentist more than twice a year. (only your dentist can decide)

• According to dental studies, about 85% of people with persistent bad breath have a more serious dental problem.

• You should change your toothbrush every 3 months.  Old ones are just not effective anymore.

• Some people get more plaque build up than others.

• Saliva is great it helps to clean your mouth.

YOUR BREATH IS BAD IF:

Some of these symptoms are signs of serious conditions that cause bad breath.

• You have build up around your gums, (tarter, plaque)

• Your gums are receding (moving back, disappearing)

• Your teeth are fuzzy (this is due to plaque build up)

• You notice people pull there head back when you try to tell them something.

• Your partner or person you are intimate with doesn't want to kiss open mouth.

• You cant remember the last time you brushed your teeth.

• You miss brushing your teeth in the morning often.

• You have a yellowing between teeth (due to not flossing)

• Breathe through a cloth/handkerchief and there is a smell and or stain left behind.

• Your pillow smells where you drool or breathe (drool may smell funny but not stinky)

• You have blood or brown stains on your pillow.

• Your gums bleed for no reason. 

• When you brush your teeth you see blood or brown when you spit.

• When you look in a mirror and stick out your tongue it is not pink.  If your tongue is yellow, brown, pasty.

• You can rub or scratch the inside of your cheeks and get a residue on your fingers/nails.

 

WHAT DOESN'T HELP BAD BREATH:

 

     

  MINTS                                     STRIPS                                            GUM                                        SPRAY                   DROPS

 

      GIANT MYTH:  These items will make my breath smell better.

 

     Sorry to tell you, these items WILL NOT cure your breath problems, they will not cover bad breath,  they are not a substitute for brushing your teeth.  Have you ever tried to spray a smoke filled room with some air fresher?  You end up with a room that smells like a burnt up forest.  The same applies here,  you need to clean your room (mouth) out for it to smell right.

 

     These above items are useful for those who do NOT have bad breath but may want to cover up the smell from there lunch.  They are not to be used instead of daily dental care.

 

     Yes if you have bad breath you can use these along with your daily dental regiment to help your breath smell better.  But do not think these will cure your problem or could be used instead of good dental care.

 

 

WHAT WILL HELP BAD BREATH:

 

	Here are two of your basic tools.  A toothbrush and Tongue Scraper.  You should brush your teeth for about 5 minutes to be effective.  That may sound hard but here is a simple way to know how long to brush your teeth.  Play a song on the radio or sing it in your head.  If you brush your teeth from the beginning to the end of the song.  You have brushed for about 4-5 minutes. Brushing your teeth twice is a day is mandatory.      You should not just brush the teeth on the front of your mouth (the ones you see).  You need to brush your teeth toward the back of your mouth.  On each side.  Behind your teeth and don't forget your teeth on top.  Brush side to side, up and down and circular.      I personally use my toothbrush to brush my tongue and the inside of my cheeks.  But some prefer a tongue scraper.  Try to get as far back as you can.  Many times the front of our tongue may look clean but the back is quite nasty.  At first your gag reflex may bother you but with time you will get used to it and be able to clean your tongue better.
My Favorite is Close-Up	We all know Toothpaste,  But what a lot of us don't know is the wonderful gel types are not as effective on odor as the stronger toothpastes.      Many people say they like the gel type because they don't burn.  If you use the other toothpastes regularly you will see a difference and after a while they will not bother you and you will enjoy the super clean feeling.  In reality the toothpaste doesn't burn, what your feeling is a reaction of germs being killed and your mouth being cleaned. You can put mouthwash in your mouth to help with the feeling if it really bothers you.      There are many toothpastes now available to help with everything from stains and odor to sensitive teeth and decay.
	Dental Floss is one tool that most people do not use.  Many people feel awkward using dental floss.   Some say it hurts there gums.  But it is necessary to scrap all the debris that stays stuck between your teeth.  The great thing is that there are many flossing tools available now to make flossing easy.      My favorite are Flossers (Seen to the Left) they are disposable, very affordable at about 2-3 dollars a bag.  They are individual and fit into the mouth easy to reach all teeth even all the way in the back.  I keep them right next to the area where I eat so that I will not forget.  Floss every time you brush or eat.
	The Mouthwashes to the left are my favorites.  They each have a great use and are recommended by dentists.  They are about 3-5 dollars each and will last about a month. ACT - Act is great because if used regularly as described, it will prevent cavities, and harden the enamel on your teeth to actually heal the beginnings of cavities. PLAX - This mouthwash is good for those who build up a lot of plaque. Used before you brush it will soften up plaque and make it easy to brush and floss away. LISTERINE -  One of the most well known for killing germs and for it's strong taste.  There are a variety of types now so you can pick one for you.  This one is great for prevention of dental problems and help with serious dental conditions.
	Baking Soda and Peroxide is often recommended to help with stains on your teeth.  Now they have toothpastes with both ingredients inside, but nothing is like the real thing.      Problem with this is it tastes terrible, but is very effective.  I have been told rinsing your mouth with peroxide is very good for getting ride of germs and helping to oxygenate and cleanse between teeth.  If you can stand it, I would say this is perfect for serious cases and stains.      One way to help with the taste is to find a toothpaste which is strong and mix your own baking soda and peroxide in it.  Putting as much as you can stand.  Much better than paying big prices for a dash of these ingredients in a formulated toothpaste.
	Of course your best friend Mr. or Mrs. Dentist.  Many people believe dental care is not necessary or something they can wait on.  Some say it is just to expensive.  Many dentist have long hours so you can come in after work, payment plans and recently I have found that many dentist have special discounts for new customers.       Those of us who have medical insurance need to step up and take care of our teeth.  If you don't like one dentist find another. You can start here: 1-800-dentist

 

 

FOR SMOKERS:

Dental Problems Associated with Tobacco Use

• Tobacco use greatly increases the risk for oral cancer, a disease that progresses rapidly and can be deadly if not diagnosed and treated early.

• Tobacco use also increases the risk of gum disease, which is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.

• Smoking can slow down healing after having a tooth pulled or other oral surgery procedures.

• Tobacco use can damage gum tissue and cause receding gums, leaving the roots of the teeth exposed. This could increase the risk of tooth decay and cause sensitivity to hot and cold.

• Any form of tobacco use can cause Bad breath.

• Tobacco use also causes stains on teeth that can't be removed from regular brushing.

• Tobacco use can cause a build up of tartar, which could require more frequent dental cleanings.

• Tobacco use causes the sense of smell and taste to be affected.

 

FINDING A DENTIST WHO CATERS TO PLUS SIZED PEOPLE: